# Coalition by Christmas? Don't bet on it

> New Zealand's election could drag into Christmas without a coalition deal.
- Title: Coalition by Christmas? Don't bet on it · RNZ | Shortify
- Summary: New Zealand's election could drag into Christmas without a coalition deal. New Zealand's prime ministerial coalition talks may not conclude before Christmas…
- Keywords: new zealand, christmas, coalition, election, christopher luxon, chris hipkins, politics, news, Don't, bet, RNZ
- Source: RNZ — https://rnz.co.nz/news/politics_election-2026/2017956/coalition-by-christmas-don-t-bet-on-it
- Author: RNZ | Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa
- Published: 2026-10-18T23:46:19+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: new zealand, christmas, coalition, election, christopher luxon, chris hipkins, politics, news
## Coalition talks delay
Both prospective prime ministers refused to set a deadline for coalition negotiations.
## Luxon's timeline
Luxon said formal negotiations would wait until 27 november after final vote count.
## Hipkins' approach
Hipkins stressed voting for Labour would give them the strongest hand for post-election discussions.
## Historical comparison
2023 coalition took 41 days after voting and 21 days after final count to sign agreements.
## Key takeaway

New Zealand's prime ministerial coalition talks may not conclude before Christmas, with both leaders refusing deadlines.