Rural Vote Battle Heats Up as Parties Recruit High-Profile Farming Figures
The battle for the rural vote is on and parties are securing high profile names to try and bolster their chances at the general election.
The reshuffle was announced two weeks before two new list MPs - Dan Rosewarne and Georgie Dansey - are sworn in.
Hipkins says the refreshed portfolios ensure the team will "hit the ground running" at the election in November.
Rosewarne, a former captain in the New Zealand army, picks up the Rural Communities portfolio previously held by Jo Luxton.
Earlier this week, it was announced Rosewarne would run in the Waimakiri district at the November 2026 election. He has previously lost the seat three times.
He entered Parliament in June 2022 as a list MP following the resignation of Kris Faafoi but was placed too far down the Labour Party's list at the 2023 election to retain the position.
Luxton retains the Agriculture and Biosecurity portfolios and picks up the Customs portfolio.
Former Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor picks up the Defence portfolio.
Meanwhile, Willow-Jean Prime will lose her education portfolio, which goes to former Police Minister Ginny Andersen. Prime will instead become spokesperson for Social Development and Employment.
Hipkins says that portfolio "requires care, empathy, and a strong focus on improving outcomes for New Zealanders".
“New Zealanders are looking for a government that’s focused on the issues that matter - the cost of living, jobs, health and homes. Our team is energised, experienced, and ready to govern,” Hipkins concludes.
