Factbox-The two Chrises vying for role of New Zealand prime minister

Christopher Luxon, leader of the New Zealand National Party, holds a media conference after casting his vote in the general election in Auckland, New Zealand, October 2, 2023. REUTERS/David Rowland/File Photo

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - New Zealand’s election has turned into a battle of the two Chrises. According to recent polls, Chris Hipkins, New Zealand’s current prime minister and leader of the Labour party, looks likely to lose power to Christopher Luxon, leader of the National Party.

But under New Zealand's mixed-member proportional electoral system, surprises are possible.