Luxon confident of support after failed leadership challenge

Monday 17 August 2026 · 3 outlets · 4 reports · updated Mon 17 Aug, 2:50pm

In this story Christopher Luxon, National Party, Chris Bishop, Erica Stanford, Chris Penk

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says he believes Defence Minister Chris Penk acted alone during an unsuccessful attempt to oust him at an emergency caucus meeting. Following the failed vote, Penk was removed from his ministerial roles and announced his departure from politics. Luxon maintains he has the full support of Erica Stanford and Chris Bishop.

How they headlined it

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8:04am10:33am2:50pm

1. StuffMon 17 Aug, 8:04am

   ‘I take them at their word’: Luxon confident other ministers weren’t part of failed coup (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldMon 17 Aug, 8:08am

   Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in studio with Mike Hosking after failed leadership coup (opens in new tab)

3. 1NewsMon 17 Aug, 10:33am

   Luxon confident in backing from Stanford, Bishop (opens in new tab)

   • Watch live: Luxon addresses media after Cabinet meeting (opens in new tab) Mon 17 Aug, 2:50pm