Constituents divided following Chris Penk's decision not to contest election

Friday 14 August 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Fri 14 Aug, 11:44am

In this story Christopher Luxon, National Party, Chris Penk

Former National Minister Chris Penk will not contest the upcoming election after a failed leadership challenge. His departure from the Kaipara ki Mahurangi electorate has split local opinions, while National MP Paul Goldsmith has not ruled out running for the seat.

How they headlined it

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1. StuffFri 14 Aug, 4:00am

   ‘Flew too high, too fast’: In deep blue country, Chris Penk’s constituents weigh in on his exit (opens in new tab)

2. 1News via RNZFri 14 Aug, 9:21am

   Who is Chris Penk: Instigator, numbers guy, fall guy, or nice guy? (opens in new tab)

3. NZ HeraldFri 14 Aug, 11:44am

   Election 2026: National MP Paul Goldsmith doesn’t shut down suggestion he could run in Chris Penk’s seat (opens in new tab)