RT HON CHRIS HIPKINS

PRIME MINISTER

NEW ZEALAND

Born in 1978, New Zealand’s 41st Prime Minister, Hon. Chris Hipkins has worked in both the public and private sectors. PM Hipkins is passionate about the Hutt Valley, his home, a place that he believes is “bursting with energy and potential”. An outdoor enthusiast, PM Hipkins is particularly keen on mountain biking, tramping and swimming.

He attended Waterloo Primary School, Hutt Intermediate and Hutt Valley Memorial College (later known as Petone College), where he was the Head Boy in 1996. He went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Politics and Criminology at Victoria University.

After completing his study, PM Hipkins worked in the industry training sector. Before becoming an MP he also worked at parliament, first as Senior Advisor to two Education Ministers and later in the office of the then-Prime Minister Helen Clark.

PM Hipkins entered Parliament in 2008 and became the Spokesperson for Education at the beginning of 2013. As well as Prime Minister, he is the MP for Remutaka, the Minister for National Security and Intelligence, and the Minister Responsible for Ministerial Services.

PM Hipkins places a strong emphasis on social justice and believes that every New Zealander should have the opportunity to reach their full potential.