Leader of the Opposition

Chris Hipkins, ‘Chippy,’ is the Leader of the New Zealand Labour Party and Member of Parliament for Remutaka.

Chris’ vision of New Zealand is a country where Kiwis can create a better life for themselves and their families through hard work. His belief that every New Zealander should have the opportunities they need to succeed is why he got into politics – and it’s what drives him every day.

Becoming the Labour Party Leader and Prime Minister in January 2023, Chris focused on essential issues amid a global economic crisis. His government prioritised supporting families and growing a strong economy. Budget 2023 introduced cost of living measures like eliminating the $5 prescription co-payment, providing cheaper public transport for youth, and reducing childcare costs. Additionally, it invested in skills, science, technology, and infrastructure to build for the future.

Before becoming Prime Minister, Chris held various Ministerial portfolios. As Minister of Education and Leader of the House post-2017 election, he introduced free healthy school lunches and free apprenticeships, and significantly upgraded state schools. Later, he managed the Health, COVID-19, and Police portfolios, implementing measures for a safer and fairer New Zealand.