Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has today announced a refreshed ministerial lineup, which includes the appointment of Chris Penk as Defence Minister and sees Justice Minister, Paul Goldsmith, take responsibility for the Public Service and Digitising Government.
“New Zealanders are facing economic challenges brought on by conflict in the Middle East and its effect on fuel supply across the world,” says Christopher Luxon.
“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.”
Under the changes, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk will pick up the Defence, GCSB and NZSIS, and Space portfolios.
The Prime Minister said Mr Penk’s time in the NZDF made him well-placed to lead the work the Government has done in raising the status and capability of New Zealand’s armed forces.
“Penny Simmonds also 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,” said Mr Luxon.
“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. Nicola Grigg becomes Minister for the Environment and 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. Mike Butterick becomes Minister for Land Information and Associate Minister of Agriculture,” the PM confirmed.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the public service of Ministers Judith Collins and Shane Reti, who are departing their elected roles.
“Judith was first elected in 2002 and since then, has held numerous different ministerial portfolios and served as Leader of the Opposition. This term, she has delivered the Defence Capability Plan, advanced New Zealand’s space industry and modernised of our public service,” he said.
“In Shane’s 12 years in Parliament, he has served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition and has delivered key reforms as a minister, including improving the commerciality of our science sector to boost incomes and create jobs. He has also played a key role in projects that will benefit New Zealanders for generations, like the third medical school and expanded cancer screening.
“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.”
These changes will come into effect on Tuesday 7 April.
View the full Ministerial List – 2 April 2026 (1).pdf
