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Luxon Removes Chris Penk From Cabinet After Confidence Vote

8/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon removed National MP Chris Penk from ministerial portfolios and Cabinet on Wednesday after a confidence vote.
Chris Penk said he will not contest the Kaipara ki Mahurangi seat at the November election, ending his nine-year career.
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts will take over Penk’s Building and Construction portfolio.
Education Minister Erica Stanford said she supports Christopher Luxon 100% and denied involvement in a leadership challenge.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon removed National MP Chris Penk from ministerial portfolios and Cabinet on Wednesday after a confidence vote.
Chris Penk said he will not contest the Kaipara ki Mahurangi seat at the November election, ending his nine-year career.
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts will take over Penk’s Building and Construction portfolio.
Education Minister Erica Stanford said she supports Christopher Luxon 100% and denied involvement in a leadership challenge.