Kris Faafoi, New Zealand’s Minister for Broadcasting and Media, has announced he is leaving Politics in the coming weeks.
Kris Faafoi has thanked NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern for the privilege of serving as a Minister in her government.
“It’s been an honour to serve New Zealander’s as a Minister and as a Member of Parliament, but it is right for me to give more time to my family and for opportunities that allow that.
“I am the father of George, Fred and Theo who say they want to see more of their Dad, which is something I think is a reasonable ask.
“I spoke with the Prime Minister about my wishes at the last election, and we had a more recent conversation the end of the last school holidays. I thank her for being supportive and allowing me to call time on my political career. I remain in awe of her strength and leadership.
“As a Minister I responded to states of emergency, introduced Market Studies, cracked down on loan sharks, managed border settings during COVID-19 and set up Public media to succeed in the future.
“It is with a heavy heart that I leave, but it is the right time. I look back at the last 12 years with pride and I look forward to the years ahead with new challenges, and most importantly more time with my family,” Kris Faafoi said.
Kris Faafoi’s Broadcasting and Media portfolio goes to Willie Jackson.
A former urban Māori chief executive and award-winning radio and television broadcaster, Jackson grew up in Porirua and Mangere, and attended Mangere College in his teenage years. Jackson previously worked as a trade union organiser, record company executive, broadcaster, sports talkback radio host and urban Māori advocate.
Jackson has a very long history working within both Māori and mainstream media in print, radio and television including commentating election coverage in 2005, 2008, 2011 and 2014.
He is the son of the late Bob Jackson and Dame June Jackson, New Zealand’s longest serving parole board member, and his wife is Tania Rangiheuea, a former Victoria University lecturer in Māori and Women’s Studies and now a school principal.
He is the Minister for Māori Development, and Minister of Broadcasting and Media, as well as Associate Minister for ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation).