Christopher Luxon Strips Chris Penk of Portfolios After Leadership Challenge

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon removed National MP Chris Penk from all ministerial portfolios on August 12, 2026. The decision followed a leadership challenge launched by Penk, which led to a lengthy National Party caucus meeting and a confidence vote. Luxon survived the vote to remain the party leader, later stating that the challenge made Penk's role "untenable."

In the resulting cabinet reshuffle, Paul Goldsmith assumed the portfolios for Defence, Veterans, Space, GCSB, and NZSIS. Simon Watts was appointed as the Minister for Building and Construction.