- Shane Reti demoted as Health Minister, falling from fourth to ninth in rankings.
- Simeon Brown takes over health portfolio, aiming to improve healthcare access for Kiwis.
- Prime Minister Luxon focuses on economic growth with several other cabinet role changes.
In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has demoted Shane Reti as Health Minister, moving him from fourth to ninth in National's rankings. Reti will now oversee universities, science, innovation and technology, and statistics. His demotion leaves no Māori ministers among National’s top eight leaders.
Simeon Brown has been appointed the new Health Minister, adding to his growing list of responsibilities. He also takes over the state-owned enterprises portfolio, while some of his former roles have been redistributed. Chris Bishop becomes Minister of Transport, and Simon Watts now manages local government and energy. Brown expressed his commitment to ensuring timely, quality healthcare for all New Zealanders.
The reshuffle reflects Luxon’s priorities for 2025, with an emphasis on economic growth and health. Nicola Willis, already Finance Minister, takes on the newly titled role of Minister for Economic Growth. Her task will be to lead initiatives aimed at boosting business productivity, developing talent, and attracting investment. Luxon highlighted her success in managing fiscal discipline and delivering tax relief in 2024.
In a move designed to strengthen regional representation, James Meager has been promoted as a minister outside cabinet. He will hold portfolios in hunting and fishing, youth, and a new position as Minister for the South Island. Meager is seen as a rising star within the party.
Other changes include Mark Mitchell becoming Minister for Sport and Ethnic Communities, Louise Upston taking over Tourism and Hospitality, and Judith Collins becoming Minister for the Public Service. Meanwhile, Melissa Lee has been removed from her remaining roles after previously struggling in her portfolio.
Luxon stated the reshuffle underscores the Government’s focus on delivering improved healthcare and revitalising the economy to make New Zealanders better off. While acknowledging Reti’s contributions in reshaping Health NZ, Luxon emphasised the need for faster progress in meeting public expectations.
Reti, once the party’s deputy leader, acknowledged the Prime Minister’s decision, calling it a privilege to serve as Health Minister. Brown, meanwhile, said he was honoured by the appointment and is determined to deliver better outcomes for patients while supporting the health workforce.
The reshuffle leaves ACT and NZ First ministers unaffected, as changes in those roles require consultation under coalition agreements.