Leaders of the Opposition of New Zealand

In New Zealand, the Leader of the Opposition is a senior politician who commands the support of HM Loyal Opposition (the Official Opposition). The Leader of the Opposition by convention heads the largest party not supporting the government: usually this is the parliamentary leader of the second-largest caucus in the House of Representatives. When in the debating chamber the Opposition leader sits on the left-hand side of the centre table, in front of the Opposition and opposite the prime minister.

The role of the Leader of the Opposition dates to the late 19th century, with the first political parties, and the office was formally recognised by statute in 1933. Although currently mentioned in a number of statutes, the office is not established by any Act; it is simply a product of the conventions of the Westminster-style parliamentary system. The leader of the Opposition is paid a special salary by virtue of the office.

Typically the leader of the Opposition is elected by his or her party according to its rules. A new leader may be elected when the incumbent dies, resigns, or is challenged for the leadership. WilliamsAChamberlain of the New Conservative Party has served as leader since 16th of December, following the results of the 5th General Election of New Zealand

The term "opposition" has a specific meaning in the parliamentary sense; it is an important component of the Westminster parliamentary system, with the Official Opposition directing criticism at the Government. The Leader of the Opposition leads a Shadow Cabinet, which scrutinises the policies and actions of the Cabinet led by the prime minister, as well as offer alternative policies. The Opposition leader may be viewed as a prime minister in waiting. He or she is expected to be ready to form a new government if the incumbent government is unable to continue in office.