Wairarapa MP Kieran McAnulty is presently New Zealand’s new acting Transport Minister.
McAnulty was yesterday given the acting portfolio in the wake of incumbent minister Michael Wood being stood down pending the resolution of issues arising from his ownership of shares in Auckland Airport.
“The Prime Minister has asked me to temporarily cover the transport role while Minister Wood resolves his issues around perceived conflicts,” McAnulty told the Times-Age yesterday.
“I used to be Associate Transport Minister, so I know the role. I’m focused on keeping my head down and getting on with the work.”
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said the decision followed Wood’s failure to properly disclose the Auckland Airport shares he holds.
Hipkins said yesterday he had told Wood he would be stood down from the transport portfolio “while any remaining issues around his conflicts are appropriately resolved”.
“Michael has indicated to me his intention to sell the shares in Auckland International Airport as soon as possible. I believe that is the appropriate course of action.
“I don’t think the transgression is one that is so significant that he should lose his job altogether, but clearly, he does need to take the time to get it right.”.
McAnulty is also Minister for Emergency Management, Local Government, Racing, and Rural Communities, as well as being Deputy Leader of the House.
