Winston Peters has told reporters he won't be able to meet with his board tomorrow night, after what's set to be the final day of coalition negotiations.
The NZ First leader seemed upbeat earlier today about the chances a deal would be thrashed out to form the next government by tomorrow night at the latest.
"We are going to be finishing off discussions tomorrow evening, will then be able to put together full picture from both sides," Mr Peters told media after emerging from his second talk of the day with National.
He went on to say that after the talks had finished he would be taking both options to his board for consideration.
However, after his most recent meeting with Labour finished this evening, with Mr Peters told reporters "no, we can't possibly get to the board tomorrow night."
When asked if he would be in a position to to make a decision by tomorrow night, the NZ First leader was also less positive.
"It's doubtful we'll be in position to do that by end of tomorrow, but what we'll be able to do is now as a caucus sit down and say this is what we can present to the party, this is what it looks like, this is how quickly we can assemble information."
At this stage it looks as if talks may even drag out longer than the previously stated Thursday deadline.
Asked if all the talks would be complete by tomorrow at least, Mr Peters stated: "Yes surely," before adding with a cheeky grin, "hopefully."
SHARE ME