Chris Hipkins set to replace Jacinda Ardern as New Zealand prime minister

Chris Hipkins, the education minister is all set to become New Zealand’s next prime minister and replace Jacinda Ardern.

Hipkins, 44, is expected to be confirmed as the new leader at a meeting of Labour‍‍`s 64 lawmakers, or Caucus, on Sunday. The official transfer of power will come in the following days.

“It’s a big day for a boy from the Hutt,” Hipkins said, referring to the Hutt Valley near Wellington where he grew up. “I’m really humbled and really proud to be taking this on. It is the biggest responsibility and the biggest privilege of my life.”

Hipkins will have only a little more than eight months in the role before contesting a general election.

Hipkins played a significant role in New Zealand‍‍`s response to the Covid-19 pandemic as he took on crisis management role.