Chris Bishop speaks as speculation intensifies over National Party leadership change

Conversations are reportedly underway among National Party MPs regarding a potential change in leadership, with senior MPs Chris Bishop and Erica Stanford emerging as speculated contenders. Despite publicly denying leadership ambitions, sources within the party suggest both are considered front-runners.

The recent surge in speculation appears to have been triggered by leader Christopher Luxon's unexpected announcement of a referendum on the country's electoral system if re-elected, a proposal that caught many MPs by surprise. This followed Luxon's earlier apology for downplaying business concerns at an event and a report about his use of a Defense Force plane for travel.

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There’s going to be change in the top job, but it was a question of who is going to be it.

Concerns over Luxon's leadership have been ongoing throughout the year. He survived a confidence vote in April, though reports indicate the margin was a close 27 to 22. MPs spoken to by the Herald expressed varying degrees of openness to change, with some indicating a shift is inevitable.

Adding to the uncertainty, Luxon and finance spokeswoman Nicola Willis held a press conference to discuss fiscal rules, including low taxes, but could not initially rule out tax increases. Luxon later clarified that potential increases would be limited to fuel excise, an accommodation levy, and a tax on banks.

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All I know is I have the support of my caucus ... I just say to you I have the support of my caucus.