Labour leader David Cunliffe has just named his front bench
and the introduction of a Shadow Cabinet,
to prepare the party to take on the Government
in the next election.
We'll cross live
to our political reporter Irena Smith for the details,
but first she takes a look at how far Labour has come in recent weeks.
As David Cunliffe made a comeback from the backbench
to become the leader of the Labour Party.
He's been in the position for a week now,
and is joined by another David as his deputy.
It seems Labour gained lot
from taking its leadership hopefuls on the road.
Which lead to Cunliffe's successful bid
and happy voters.
As John Key shares a cuppa with the Queen of England,
polls here at home say
more voters support David Cunliffe for prime minister.
In the ONE News Colmar Brunton poll yesterday...
Labour is up in the polls by 1%,
with Cunliffe up by 12% as preferred PM.
Following some division in Labour's ranks,
its new leader now needs to decide who should be on his frontbench,
backbench and reserves.
Labour's Maori MPs know that unity is priority
and they've put their trust in their leader.
Those who deny their support, however, face relegation.
What's in store for the Cunliffe faithful?
We find out today when he announces his line-up.
Let's now cross over to Irena Smith.
Irena, which Maori Labour MPs
got the best deal in Cunliffe's cabinet shuffle announcement today?
Shane Jones gained the most,
being pushed up the list to number five
between Annette King at four and Jacinda Ardern at six.
He's the economic spokesperson, which isn't much of a surprise.
Last week, the Cunliffe hinted
that Jones would gain a lot in the shuffle.
He'll also have a big part in Maori affairs
which will be his responsibility.
Hopefully, he'll be able to bring back Maori supporters.
Jones is quick of mouth and mind,
and no doubt Labour put these skills to use to upset the government.
Do doubt. And what of Nanaia Mahuta, did she come out smiling too?
Yes, she's jumped from 13 to nine on the list.
It's a big deal for her.
Her offices say she's happy with David Cunliffe's decision.
She's held her seat for a long time,
and has long been a Maori Labour member.
She'll now be the Treaty settlements spokesperson
a well as spokesperson for post-settlement issues.
So it seems it's a good day for Maori Mps.
Yes, because Shane and Nanaia have made David Cunliffe's inner circle,
and will take their seat's at the cabinet's fore.
They'll shoulder the Maori issues,
but the other Maori members such as Moana Mackey and Louisa Wall
are below the line at the moment, Scotty.
Thank you for your report, Irena Smith,
live from Wellington.