Labour’s Pacific leaders step up in reshuffle for 2026 election

Barbara Edmonds, Carmel Sepuloni, and Tangi Utikere will play key roles in economic and regional leadership following Labour’s recent reshuffle.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins unveils his new team to spearhead the party’s priorities heading into the general election next year.

Edmonds will lead Labour’s economic strategy as the Finance and Economy spokesperson. In an expanded role, she will also oversee the newly-created Savings and Investment portfolio.

Edmonds is the first female and Pacific finance spokesperson in Parliament.

“Economic growth for the sake of it isn’t an economic strategy,” Hipkins says.

“I’ve tasked Barbara with making sure we’re ready to balance the books, increase our savings, expand our investment opportunities, and create the economic conditions for all Kiwis to thrive.”

Edmonds will be supported by a team that includes Ginny Andersen (Jobs and Incomes), Peeni Henare (Economic Development), Reuben Davidson (Science, Innovation and Technology, Broadcasting, Media and Creative Economy), and Cushla Tangaere-Manuel (Māori Economy).

Meanwhile, Sepuloni, Labour’s deputy leader, will take on the Auckland portfolio, which is vital to the party’s strategy to regain political ground in New Zealand’s largest city.

“The relationships Carmel has in Auckland will be vital to the success of the next Government and how it delivers for our biggest city,” Hipkins says.

Labour Leader Chris Hipkins. Photo/NZ Labour Party

Sepuloni’s appointment comes as Labour seeks to regain traction in a city where National gained significant ground in the 2023 election.

Utikere is also stepping into a critical role, taking on the Transport and Local Government portfolios.

He represents the electorate in Parliament, having a strong background in governance and public service as the former deputy mayor of Palmerston North.

Labour has the most number of Pacific MPs in Parliament, five.

“This experienced, united and formidable team is ready for Government,” Hipkins says.

“We will be working relentlessly over the next 18 months as we finalise policy and prepare to take back power in 2026.”

Listen to Māngere MP Lemauga Lydia Sosene's recent update on Pacific Mornings.