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Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced a refreshed ministerial line-up ahead of this year’s general election.
The PM thanked Papakura MP, Judith Collins, for her lengthy service to the National Party.
“Judith was first elected in 2002 and since then, has held numerous different ministerial portfolios and served as Leader of the Opposition,” Luxon says.
“This term, she’s delivered the Defence Capability Plan, advanced New Zealand’s space industry and modernised of our public service.
“I acknowledge the public service of Judith Collins and Shane Reti who, between them, have dedicated almost 40 years to representing their communities in Parliament.”
Whangarei MP Reti has served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition and delivered key reforms, Luxon says.
“I would also like to acknowledge the staff who have supported Judith and Shane throughout their time here. New Zealand is better for Judith and Shane deciding to enter public service and I am grateful to count them both as friends.
“On behalf of the Government and the National Party, I wish them all the best for their futures outside Parliament.”
While some are stepping down, others are stepping up.
“New Zealanders are facing economic challenges brought on by conflict in the Middle East and its effect on fuel supply across the world,” Luxon says.
“Having a strong ministerial team with real-world experience to deliver our response is crucial. Today’s reshuffle reflects that and brings in new talent.”
Chris Penk joins the cabinet, picking up the Defence, GCSB and NZSIS, and Space portfolios.
“Chris’s time in the New Zealand Defence Force leaves him well placed to lead the work our government has done in raising the status and capability of our armed forces.”
Luxon says Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds joins Cabinet with responsibility for Tertiary Education and Science, Innovation and Technology.
“Penny has successfully delivered reforms to the vocational education sector, also from outside Cabinet, and will bring her extensive governance experience to her new portfolios.
“The past few weeks have underlined how important energy security is and as such I will be elevating the Energy portfolio to senior minister Simeon Brown.
“Chris Bishop becomes Attorney-General and Paul Goldsmith takes responsibility for the Public Service and Digitising Government, and Pacific Peoples portfolios.
“Louise Upston will become Leader of the House and Simon Watts will be Minister for Auckland.”
Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg becomes Minister for the Environment and Coromandel MP Scott Simpson becomes Minister of Statistics and Deputy Leader of the House.
“Joining as a Minister outside Cabinet, Cameron Brewer becomes Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and Small Business and Manufacturing, and Associate Minister of Immigration,” Luxon says.
“Mike Butterick becomes Minister for Land Information and Associate Minister of Agriculture.”
The cabinet changes come into effect on Tuesday.
