In a move that signals the end of an era for New Zealand’s political landscape, Hon. Judith Collins KC announced on January 28, 2026, that she will retire from politics to become the next President of the Law Commission (Te Aka Matua o te Ture).
The appointment, confirmed by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, marks the departure of one of Parliament’s most formidable and longest-serving figures. Collins, currently serving as Attorney-General and Minister of Defence, will formally transition to her new role in mid-2026, concluding a 24-year parliamentary career.
Judith Collins: From “Crusher” to Law Reform Leader
Widely known by the moniker “Crusher”—a nickname earned during her time as Police Minister for legislation allowing the crushing of boy racers’ cars—Collins has been a central pillar of the National Party since her election in 2002.
A Career of Resilience and Portfolios
Throughout her tenure, Collins has held a staggering 18 ministerial portfolios, including some of the most challenging roles in government:
Justice & Police: Served multiple terms, establishing a reputation for being “tough on crime.”
Leader of the Opposition: Led the National Party from 2020 to 2021 during a period of significant political upheaval.
Mother of the House: Currently holds the title of the longest continuously serving female MP.
Current Roles: Leaving her posts as Attorney-General, Minister of Defence, and Minister for Digitising Government, among others.
The Law Commission: A Return to Roots
Before entering politics, Collins practiced law for 21 years and served as President of the Auckland District Law Society. She described her new appointment as a return to her “first love.”
“Before being elected to Parliament I practised law for 21 years… it seems fitting it will soon be my professional focus once again,” Collins said during her announcement.
The Significance of the Transition
The Law Commission is an independent body that reviews, reforms, and modernizes New Zealand’s laws. By stepping into this role, Collins follows in the footsteps of legal heavyweights like Sir Geoffrey Palmer.
Apolitical Mandate: Collins emphasized that the Law Commission “is not there to play political games” and must remain apolitical in its operations.
Avoidance of By-election: Collins intends to stay on as an MP for Papakura until mid-2026. By timing her departure close to the next general election (expected in late 2026), she hopes to avoid the need for a costly by-election.
Bipartisan Tributes: Tributes flowed from across the political aisle, with even fierce opponents acknowledging her sharp intellect, unwavering commitment to public service, and “wicked sense of humor.”
As New Zealand moves toward its next election cycle, the vacancy left by the “Mother of the House” will trigger a significant reshuffle within the National Party’s senior leadership.
