Luxon Survives Leadership Challenge Amid Growing Rifts in National Party

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has survived a confidence vote in his leadership, but the challenge from Defence Minister Chris Penk exposed growing rifts within his National Party just three months ahead of the November 7 election.

Luxon took swift action after the vote, sacking Penk from his portfolios and stating that he had instigated the leadership challenge, leaving his position 'untenable'. Penk later announced he would quit politics and not contest his seat at the election, but expressed support for Luxon to lead the government.

The confidence vote was Luxon's second public test this year, with many concerned about disquiet within the party. The National Party is struggling in opinion polls, and the economy remains a key battleground ahead of the election.