National MP Shane Reti to Retire at Upcoming Election
Whangārei MP Dr. Shane Reti, a prominent figure in the National Party, has announced his retirement from politics at the next general election. Reti, who has served four terms in Parliament since being first elected in 2014, was the first Māori MP to represent the Whangārei electorate.
In a statement released on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Reti expressed gratitude to the people of Whangārei and acknowledged the support of his family and the National Party. “I aim for to thank the people of Whangārei for the great privilege of serving them and to my partner and family for their understanding and unconditional contribution to this career,” he said. He also thanked the Prime Minister, local party executive, colleagues, and staff for their support throughout his tenure as Whangārei MP, Deputy Leader of the National Party, Interim Leader of the National Party, and as a Minister. Source: National Party
A Career in Parliament and Ministerial Roles
Reti’s parliamentary career began in 2014, and he has held several ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Health, Minister for Universities, Minister for Science Innovation &. Technology, Minister for Statistics, and Minister for Pacific Peoples. Source: RNZ News He briefly served as interim leader of the National Party for five days in November 2021, following Judith Collins’ departure and before Christopher Luxon assumed the leadership. Source: RNZ News
He was Minister of Health for approximately a year before being replaced by Simeon Brown in January 2025. Source: RNZ News
Key Achievements Highlighted
Reti highlighted several accomplishments during his time in office, including progress on the four-lane highway to Whangārei and the expansion of breast cancer screening to include women aged 70-74. He also noted the establishment of a third medical school at the University of Waikato. Source: National Party he pointed to the reshaping of the science and technology sector, specifically the amalgamation of seven Crown Research Institutes into three Public Research Organisations. Source: National Party and Source: Times
Reti stated he was leaving parliament to spend more time with his family, having missed significant family events during his political career. Source: RNZ News
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