LGBTQ+ ally and former National Party MP for Auckland Central, Nikki Kaye, has passed away at the age of 44. Her death was announced through heartfelt tributes from colleagues and friends across the political spectrum.
In a Facebook post, former colleague Maggie Barry shared a photo with the caption, “Farewell, my friend.” Speaking to 1News, Barry expressed her devastation, describing Kaye as a “strong spirit” and a staunch advocate for conservation efforts.
“Nikki worked tirelessly on causes she believed in, including fighting hard to save our threatened plant and bird species. She made a huge contribution to her country, and she will be missed,” Barry said.
Kaye served as Auckland Central’s MP from 2008 to 2020, holding several ministerial roles during her career. Kaye was a proud supporter and ally of the rainbow community and was often seen at queer community & charity events, including the annual Rainbow New Zealand Charitable Trust’s fundraisers. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, she continued to serve in politics, even becoming National’s deputy leader under Todd Muller before stepping down in 2020.
Muller paid tribute on X, calling Kaye a “beautiful soul” with a “deeply caring heart fuelled by a ferocious energy to serve her party, community and country, often at the expense of her own health.” He added, “I will miss her dearly. Rest in peace, Nikki.”
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Leader Nicola Willis expressed their sadness in a joint statement, praising Kaye’s legacy.
“Nikki’s contribution to our Party, her community, and New Zealand has left an indelible mark. Her tireless dedication, sharp intellect, and tenacity earned her the respect of people across the political spectrum,” Luxon said.
Willis described Kaye as “one of the bravest Parliamentarians” New Zealand had ever seen, adding, “She was fiercely committed to her constituents and values and contributed so much of her soul to this country and our party.”
Judith Collins, the Attorney-General, also shared her condolences on X, writing, “Far too young and far too early. RIP Nikki.”
The National Party issued a statement commemorating Kaye’s extraordinary contributions. “As the local MP, Nikki handled over 50,000 constituency cases and was a staunch environmental advocate. She also strongly advocated for youth, women, and the LGBTQ community. Nikki Kaye committed more to our Party than any political party could hope for or ask of anyone. She is a great loss to us and the many New Zealanders whose lives she sought to improve daily.”
Green Party Co-leader Marama Davidson also shared a poignant memory of Kaye supporting her following her own breast cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
“You knew about my diagnosis long before the public knew… I’ll never forget your response when I told you. You put your lunch down, stood up, and hugged me silently for what seemed like the longest time,” Davidson wrote on Facebook.
Davidson expressed her heartbreak at Kaye’s passing, adding, “Our sharing, even if just for the last part of your time, will stay in my heart and impact me forever.”
Chlöe Swarbrick, Auckland Central’s current MP, described her as “respected across the aisle.” She recalled Kaye’s unwavering dedication to the community, stating, “Her work in Auckland Central set the bar for what it meant to be an electorate MP.”
Labour Leader Chris Hipkins called the news “incredibly sad,” remembering Kaye as a passionate advocate for education. “We may have been political opponents, but I found her immensely reasonable. She poured her heart and soul into her electorate.”
Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern, who contested against Kaye in Auckland Central, shared her own tribute. “We may have been opponents, but there were so many things I admired about Nikki. She worked incredibly hard, cared passionately about her electorate, and was always willing to set politics aside for her values. Politics was better for having you in it. Rest in peace, Nikki.”
Nikki Kaye’s contributions to New Zealand politics, her community, the LGBTQ+ community, and environmental conservation leave behind a powerful legacy. Her compassion, dedication, and courage will not be forgotten.
