New Zealand PM sees "pathway" to next government after knife-edge poll

New Zealand’s general election has resulted in a closely contested outcome, with neither the ruling National Party nor the centre-left Labour Party securing enough seats to form a government independently.

The National Party emerged as the largest party in parliament, but coalition negotiations remain uncertain as around 300,000 special votes are yet to be counted.

The official results are expected on November 27, after which negotiations with smaller parties will determine the formation of the next government. Meanwhile, the current ministers will remain in office under caretaker arrangements until the process is completed.