New Zealand's Prime Minister-elect Christopher Luxon speaks to the media about coalition talks at Parliament in Wellington on Nov 3, 2023. (PHOTO / AFP)

WELLINGTON - New Zealand's Prime Minister-elect Christopher Luxon said on Monday that a "significant milestone" had been achieved in forming a government overnight with the National Party, ACT New Zealand and New Zealand First agreeing on policy programs.

National won the largest share of votes in New Zealand's Oct 14 general election but needs both NZ First and ACT to form a government. The three parties are currently negotiating coalition agreements.

Website Newshub reported that Luxon said he was very relieved to have finished that part of the coalition talks

Luxon told reporters in Auckland that National had agreed their policy programs with ACT and NZ First.

There was no immediate confirmation from ACT or NZ First.

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Website Newshub reported that Luxon said he was very relieved to have finished that part of the coalition talks.

Before agreements can be finalized, the parties must make decisions on ministerial positions. Luxon said he did not expect that to take too long, and discussions would focus on these decisions on Monday afternoon.