Labour MP Duncan Webb has decided not to seek re-election in 2026.

“I’ve been an MP for nearly nine years and have enjoyed my time at Parliament and as the MP for Christchurch Central. It was also a huge privilege to be a Minister in the sixth Labour Government,” Duncan Webb said.

“Being an MP is an enormous honour – and I want to thank my local members and the people of Christchurch for putting their trust in me to do this job on their behalf. I want to assure them that I won’t be slowing down before the election. I am still here to help.

“I have put a lot of thought into this decision. I particularly love the justice portfolio and would like to thank Labour Leader Chris Hipkins for putting his trust in me to do it, as well as my Labour caucus colleagues who are a fantastic bunch to work the relentless days and long nights with.

“But I’ve decided I am going to take a break and then do something else. I want to spend more time adventuring, exploring nature, hiking, skiing and mountain biking with my partner and now-adult sons.

“After that I’ll see what’s out there, but I believe I have another exciting career in me yet,” Duncan Webb said.