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Summarised by Centrist
New Zealand’s top political figures rely on a team of behind-the-scenes players: trusted advisers, strategists, and aides who shape policies, messaging, and party dynamics.
For example, Jake O’Flaherty, senior communications adviser to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, is described as his “social media guy” and a constant companion.
O’Flaherty’s role has redefined traditional communications in favour of youthful social media expertise. “There is a level of trust between O’Flaherty and Luxon… despite a different age and stage,” Beehive insiders observe.
Christopher Luxon’s inner circle also includes Matt Burgess, his chief adviser and a noted economist, as well as Ben King, head of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Burgess is praised for his sharp intellect and background in economic policy under former Prime Ministers John Key and Bill English. King, meanwhile, leverages his foreign affairs experience, accompanying Luxon to global summits like NATO.
For ACT, Sam Purchas runs the party’s operations and manages leader David Seymour’s campaigns, while Mikaela Bossley handles press for National’s Chris Bishop.
Even opposition leaders lean on seasoned advisers. Jon Johansson, a former academic and expert in US politics, has returned as Winston Peters’ senior foreign policy adviser.
Image: Matt Burgess
