A certain naivete on the new leader's part.
Some way down the list — and unencumbered by concerns of gender balance — stalwart Rangitikei MP Ian McKelvie will hold the portfolios of fisheries and racing.
With New Zealand's fishery under increasing pressure, it will be interesting to see how Mr McKelvie — now an old hand on the parliamentary scene — balances the competing demands of the industry and a sustainable aquatic environment.
Through select committee work, he will be able to pursue his particular interests in seniors and veteran issues.
Whanganui MP Harete Hipango will be pleased to have been given the Maori tourism brief, something she is well acquainted with.
While her background is justice and social issues, she is also keen on foreign trade which her Maori tourism role will touch on.
Despite being a political newcomer, her ranking at 47 among the 56 National MPs marks an impressive start, ahead of higher profile and more experienced members of the caucus.