Watch: 'A good solid change of government' – Jacinda Ardern 'positive' after final meeting with Winston Peters

October 12, 2017

The Labour team was all smiles after emerging from the talks this evening.

A beaming Jacinda Ardern has emerged from final talks with NZ First saying the "foundation" had been laid for a "good solid change of government".

The Labour leader spoke for under 30 seconds after what has been another gruelling day of negotiations as the nation waits on whether NZ First will side with National or a Labour Party supported by the Greens.

Earlier today, Winston Peters announced the NZ First board will most likely not meet before Saturday, having initially said a decision on a new government would be made by today.

Ms Ardern earlier defended the process which has taken place during the talks.

The Labour leader emerged from her latest meeting with NZ First stressing the importance of the process being undertaken.

Winston Peters said the possibility of Skype was discussed but decided against.

"This has been a robust process," she said.

"It has been an important process we need to make sure we are making a considered decision about the future of New Zealand.

"This is about the kind of government that’s going to be created to govern New Zealand over the next three years.

"I think it's only reasonable that we take this length of time to make sure this relationship is right and that we have built consensus over important areas."

Winston Peters said the possibility of Skype was discussed but decided against.

While it's unsure when an announcement will be made, Winston Peters is meeting with his board on Saturday to lay out both options that have emerged from the talks. 

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