Melissa Lee has been relieved of the role of Media and Communications Minister, while Penny Simmonds has also lost her disabilities portfolio.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the change is due to significant challenges in each portfolio which means they should be held by senior Cabinet ministers.

It follows controversies and pressure in both ministers' portfolios in recent months.

Paul Goldsmith will take over from Lee, and Louise Upston will take over for Simmonds.

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