National MPs David Bennett and Ian McKelvie will stand down at the 2023 election.
Bennett, who recently welcomed a new baby girl, said in a statement that he is ready "to embark on a new stage of life", while McKelvie said he is proud of the work he's done since entering Parliament in 2011.
National Party leader Christopher Luxon said both MPs have "been absolute stalwarts for their local communities". Bennett was the Hamilton East MP from 2005 to 2020, and has been a List MP since, while McKelvie has represented Rangitīkei since 2011.
"In the previous National Government, David held ministerial portfolios including Food Safety, Veterans Affairs, Racing and Associate Transport," Luxon said. "He was one of the key proponents of National's commitment to build the Waikato Expressway – now a vital piece of infrastructure for the region."
Bennett said the Waikato Expressway was "transformational for Hamilton and the region, and will continue to deliver growth for the next generation". The Hamilton section of the expressway opened to traffic earlier this month.
"Backing up this infrastructure with new schools, hospital rebuilds, and the first fibre network has meant Hamilton has really come of age in the almost two decades I've spent advocating for the city and its people," the outgoing MP said.
"Hamilton is a fantastic place to live and do business, with a diverse range of community members. I'm proud to step down at a time when the area is in an exciting space and full of potential."
He now expects to spend more time with family and in the farming sector.
"I am pleased to be part of the current National team, and I know Christopher Luxon will lead a great National Government. I will continue to advocate for vital infrastructure and the people of Hamilton until the next election."
Luxon said McKelvie has been National's spokesperson for seniors, fishing and racing, "areas he is incredibly passionate about".
"While in Opposition, Ian successfully shepherded two Members' Bills into law – one to speed up the court processes for dog control offences, and another allowing racegoers to BYO drinks when a racing club holds an appropriate liquor licence. "
McKelvie said in a statement that he's spent the past 20 years in public service, first as Mayor of Manawatu and then as MP for Rangitīkei.
"I have always been a passionate advocate for the people of Rangitikei, and for the interests of rural and provincial New Zealand. This role is both an honour and a privilege.
"I came to the job with strong family ethos and a belief in the value of a hard day's work, personal responsibility and equal opportunity for all to succeed. I still stand by those values."
He said he has enjoyed his roles as chair of the Governance and Administration Select Committee, sitting on the Primary Production Select Committee and serving as Assistant Speaker.
"I look forward to continuing to serve all those who call Rangitikei home until next year's General Election, and speaking up for our region, interests and people in Parliament. New Zealand needs a National Government that gets things done."
