‘It’s biblical’: Shane Jones on his ascension to NZ First deputy leader

New Zealand First MP Shane Jones hopes to broaden the party’s appeal ahead of an “intensely political” election year as he becomes NZ First’s deputy leader.

Leader Winston Peters confirmed earlier today the party’s caucus had unanimously elected Jones, a former Labour minister, as deputy after years of being considered Peters’ de facto number two.

NZ First has not had a deputy leader since Fletcher Tabuteau held the role while in Government between 2017-2020.

Asked why his position had been formalised, Jones replied: “It’s biblical. [There is] a time and season for all things”.

He later argued it would give NZ First a greater platform heading into an “intensely political year in 2026″.

“We’re taking nothing for granted in terms of how tight the race is going to be and I want to be in a position to do as much as possible to support Winston.

“He knows how to attract the crowd but I’m going to also broaden the appeal in terms of getting out there into the nooks and crannies.

Jones claimed he hadn’t asked for the role but then said a “certain level of talent rose to the top”.

He waved away questions his elevation pointed to the party’s succession plan.

“Oh no, those matters lie exclusively well into the future. [Winston] is our rangatira and we want him to lead us to victory at the next election.”

Peters dismissed suggestions Jones’ promotion indicated he was considering retirement.

Adam Pearse is the deputy political editor and part of the NZ Herald’s Press Gallery team based at Parliament in Wellington. He has worked for NZME since 2018, reporting for the Northern Advocate in Whangārei and the Herald in Auckland.