Chris Hipkins set to be New Zealand’s next prime ministerBy Nick Perry, Associated PressEducation Minister Chris Hipkins is set to become New Zealand’s next prime minister after he was the only candidate to enter the race to replace Jacinda Ardern. Mr Hipkins will have less than eight months in the role before contesting a general election. Mr Hipkins rose to public prominence during the coronavirus pandemic, when he took on a kind of crisis management role. “It’s a big day for a boy from the Hutt,” Mr Hipkins said, referring to the Hutt Valley near Wellington where he grew up. It is the biggest responsibility and the biggest privilege of my life.”Mr Hipkins said: “Jacinda Ardern has been an incredible prime minister for New Zealand.

Source: Irish Independent January 21, 2023 22:42 UTC