Factbox-New Zealand's new Prime Minister Chris Hipkins

FILE PHOTO: Chris Hipkins speaks to members of the media, after being confirmed as the only nomination to replace Jacinda Ardern as leader of the Labour Party, outside New Zealand's parliament in Wellington, New Zealand January 21 2023. REUTERS/Lucy Craymer/File Photo

(Reuters) - Chris Hipkins is New Zealand's 41st prime minister, following the surprise resignation of the charismatic Jacinda Ardern.

Hipkins was elected by the 64 Labour lawmakers to lead the governing Labour party before being sworn in by King Charles III's representative, Governor General Cindy Kiro.