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New Nats leader Simon Bridges: 'I can't wait to get to work'
Simon Bridges has been named as the new leader of the
National Party, with Paula Bennett confirmed to continue as
deputy.
Simon Bridges shortly after being named new leader of the National Party. Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King
Mr Bridges, Amy Adams, Judith Collins, Mark Mitchell and Steven Joyce were all vying to lead the party.
Mr Bridges - who will become the first Māori leader of the National Party - was elected after 56 National MPs conducted a secret ballot this morning. There were two ballots and Mr Bridges won on the second.
He is replacing Bill English, who will deliver his valedictory speech on Thursday.
Speaking after the announcement, Mr Bridges said he was humbled by his colleagues picking him to be the 12th leader of the National Party.
He said caucus was not fractured, and the process of picking the leadership had been respectful and friendly.
He thanked Mr English, and said the party was "truly" blessed to have such good candidates.
He said he was incredibly fortunate to inherit a party in such good shape and acknowledged Ms Bennet as his deputy - calling her his fellow Westie and Māori. He confirmed that she had faced a challenger for the deputy position, but would not say who it was.
Mr Bridges said his party would do three things: hold the opposition to account, be an alternative government in waiting, and develop the team of MPs. He said there would be a reshuffle in coming weeks.
In a statement, Mr Bridges said taking on the new role was an "enormous privilege".
"I want to thank my colleagues for giving me the opportunity to lead a strong, united and focused Opposition with the ideas and talent to continue to take New Zealand forward.
"I would like to commend Amy, Steven, Judith and Mark for putting themselves forward, and our colleagues for the constructive way we have handled this important decision. That gives me great confidence.
"I would also like to thank Bill English for his tremendous service. Under Bill's leadership New Zealand has become a better place and we are grateful for all he has done."
He said he was delighted that Ms Bennett would continue as deputy.
"Paula brings great experience and ability to draw people together and I know she will continue to do an excellent job.
"Our renewed focus on 2020 begins now and I can't wait to get to work."
Mr Bridges said National was the underdog heading into the 2020 election.
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