After a week of intense navel-gazing, New Zealand’s National Party has elected Christopher Luxon as its Leader, alongside Nicola Willis as Deputy Leader. This followed the stepping-aside of Simon Bridges from leadership contention, clearing the way for Luxon to be elected essentially uncontested.

“It is a tremendous privilege to lead our great party, and I thank my colleagues for the confidence they have placed in me,” Mr Luxon says.

“I’m delighted the Caucus has elected Nicola Willis as Deputy Leader. She will do an incredible job and we will be a formidable team.

“The unified National Party that Nicola and I lead will work every day to represent all New Zealanders, earn back their trust and confidence, and deliver for them.”

“Now, more than ever, New Zealand needs the National Party to offer them hope, ambition and drive to meet the challenges of the coming decade.

“We believe New Zealanders need a government of action – not rhetoric.

“I came to politics because I know how to solve problems and get things done.”

Mr Luxon’s election will come as no surprise to political pundits. After all, from the start of his entry into the ranks of the National Party, he has been touted as a potential leader. Upon her exit from the leadership, Judith Collins was also quick to announce her support for Luxon as the next leader.

Luxon and Willis face strong challenges ahead. With less than 18 months before campaigning for the next election begins in earnest, they now lead a party that is polling at record lows and a potential coalition partner in ACT that may well outgrow National to become the dominant Opposition party. The need for National to clearly differentiate itself from Labour and win over the centre vote is more pressing than ever.