New Zealand's outgoing Prime Minister Chris Hipkins leaves after speaking to the media about the election results three weeks after the 2023 New Zealand general election, at Parliament in Wellington on Nov 3, 2023. (PHOTO / AFP)

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand Labor Caucus confirmed on Tuesday that Chris Hipkins would remain Labor leader, and Carmel Sepuloni would take over as deputy leader of the Labor Party.

New Zealand's National Party won the general election on Oct 14, with the Labor Party to step down after six years in office.

Labor leader and incumbent Prime Minister Hipkins said Labor would remain strong in opposition next term.

"It is an honor to lead the Labor Party and stand up for progress. We will be taking time to regroup, plan and prepare for the next parliamentary term in opposition," Hipkins said after Tuesday's Labor Caucus meeting.

READ MORE: New Zealand declares official results of General Election

The endorsement of the leader is required under the Labor constitution within three months of a general election.