Opposition Performance Ranked: Key Highlights from 2025

Each year, political analysts evaluate the performance of key opposition figures. Recently, The Post ranked members of the Opposition for their contributions throughout 2025. This assessment focuses on the Labour Party and co-leaders of other opposition parties. The evaluation criteria include policy development, promotion, and the ability to challenge the Government effectively.

Ranking political performance involves inherent subjectivity, as opposition politicians do not have the same capacity to implement policies as their government counterparts. Nevertheless, they play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and holding the Government accountable. A score of 5/10 typically represents a par performance, indicating that a shadow minister is functioning adequately in their role.

Labour Party Rankings

The rankings reflect the positions of Labour Party members as outlined on the party’s official website.

Chris Hipkins, spokesperson for Ministerial Services, National Security and Intelligence, received a score of 9/10. Hipkins has effectively managed to maintain Labour’s stability during a challenging year, successfully navigating the introduction of a capital gains tax while preserving support from various demographics. His extensive experience in Parliament enables him to engage robustly in debates, though he may need to improve his public interaction as the campaign progresses.

In contrast, Carmel Sepuloni, spokesperson for Auckland Issues, Women, and Pacific Peoples, earned a score of 5/10. As a prominent Auckland MP, she has provided steady support but has not significantly distinguished herself in media appearances.

Barbara Edmonds, spokesperson for Finance and Economy, received a score of 7/10. Her ability to connect with colleagues and her efforts to shift Labour’s fiscal policies towards more moderate positions have garnered her respect within Parliament. Despite her strengths, she struggles to articulate her message effectively in the media.

Dr. Megan Woods, who covers Manufacturing and Industry, scored only 3/10. With limited engagement in her role and a lack of visible leadership during crucial discussions on energy, her performance has raised concerns, especially since she will not seek re-election next year.

Willie Jackson, spokesperson for Māori Development and Social Development, received a score of 4/10. Although he possesses valuable experience, his effectiveness has been questionable, especially following a public disagreement with a former ally.

In the area of Health, Ayesha Verrall achieved a score of 7/10. She has been instrumental in driving Labour’s health agenda, combining her expertise with political strategy to address pressing issues, although she could benefit from increased confidence during media appearances.

Shadow Leader of the House, Kieran McAnulty, scored 6/10. He has effectively managed leadership speculation but needs to enhance his performance in housing debates to better challenge National MPs.

On the lower end of the spectrum, Willow-Jean Prime, spokesperson for Education, received a score of 1/10. Her failure to engage with the Education Minister on significant reforms led to considerable embarrassment for Labour, highlighting weaknesses in her role.

Other notable mentions include Ginny Andersen (5/10), Jan Tinetti (4/10), Peeni Henare (4/10), and Tangi Utikere (3/10), who all displayed varying degrees of effectiveness in their roles but lacked standout performances.

Performance of Other Opposition Parties

The Green Party and Te Pāti Māori also faced evaluations this year. Marama Davidson returned to Parliament after treatment for breast cancer, and her current performance does not warrant a score due to her ongoing recovery.

In contrast, Chloë Swarbrick received a score of 6.5/10. She has remained a strong presence in the House, advocating for detailed policy discussions, although her performance has not reached previous heights.

For Te Pāti Māori, Rawiri Waititi scored 1/10. His absence from the Privileges Committee was criticized, and his leadership style has been questioned amidst internal party challenges. Meanwhile, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer scored 3/10. As a mediator within her party, she has shown capability but has been limited by the party’s decision to reduce media engagement, impacting her visibility.

Overall, the rankings provide insight into the performance and effectiveness of the Opposition in 2025, reflecting both strengths and significant areas for improvement as they approach the upcoming election cycle.