Wellington: New Zealand Labour MP Chris Hipkins is going to replace Jacinda Ardern as the new Prime Minister of the country, media reports said.

He is the only nominee for the party's leadership.

He is currently serving as the country's minister for police, education and public service.

He was first elected to the Parliament in 2008.

He was appointed as the country's minister for Covid-19 in November 2020.

How long Hipkins will be in office is uncertain as New Zealand holds a general election in October, reports BBC.

In a shocking announcement, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Thursday said she will step down from the top post and leader of the Labour Party in February as she will not be seeking re-election this year.

Ardern's last day as the Prime Minister is Feb. 7.