Senior National MPs consider telling Luxon it is time to go
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is facing a potential leadership challenge from within his own National Party. Senior MPs are reportedly considering a move to oust him due to frustration over recent political missteps.
Why it matters
A leadership change in New Zealand would significantly alter the country's current governing coalition and policy direction.
<p>Senior National MPs are considering going to the Prime Minister to tell him to resign, 1News understands. </p> <p>The frustration comes over what the MPs believe is a set of "own goals" by Christopher Luxon in recent weeks and what they describe as his poor political radar.</p> <p>This evening, some Cabinet ministers, including Education Minister Erica Stanford and Auckland-based MP Simon Watts, have refrained from showing support for the Prime Minister when asked by media, choosing to stay silent.<a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/08/11/live-updates-luxon-leadership-meeting-called-to-resolve-the-issue/" target="_blank"><b></b></a></p> <p>Others, such as National's Southland MP Joseph Mooney and Coromandel MP Scott Simpson, have backed Luxon.</p> <p><b></b><a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/08/11/live-updates-luxon-leadership-meeting-called-to-resolve-the-issue/" target="_blank"><b>Live updates: Willis backs Luxon, says 'we'll all have more to say tomorrow'</b></a></p> <p>Deputy National leader and Finance Minister Nicola Willis also said she had confidence in Luxon, telling reporters: “Yes, and we’ll all have more to say tomorrow.”</p> <p>Mark Mitchell has been more emphatic in his support, saying he has…
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