Chris Penk quits 2026 race days after leadership challenge against Luxon

National MP Chris Penk has confirmed he will not contest the 2026 election for Kaipara ki Mahurangi. The announcement came in a statement from the Prime Minister's office, days after Penk launched a leadership challenge against Christopher Luxon, survived a confidence vote, and was stripped of all portfolios. National Party president Sylvia Wood said a new candidate will be selected under party rules.