Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has survived another confidence vote in his leadership, with Canterbury National MPs Matt Doocey and James Meager declaring the caucus united behind him.

Luxon emerged from Wednesday morning’s caucus meeting with senior ministers standing behind him and delivered a brief statement to reporters.

“There was a confidence vote in my leadership this morning at our caucus meeting. I had the full support of our caucus, and our caucus is united and it is determined to win this election,” Luxon said.

His appearance before reporters lasted fewer than 60 seconds, and he did not take questions.

The vote was Luxon’s second confidence vote this year and came amid renewed speculation over his leadership less than three months out from the November 7 general election.

Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey confirmed he had backed Luxon in the confidence vote.

“I voted for Christopher as I firmly believe he has what it takes to turn this country around,” Doocey said in a text message.

Doocey said Luxon remaining Prime Minister was also positive for Canterbury.

“Christopher remaining as PM is great news for Canterbury. He grew up here, knows the region well and is committed to building on its success post earthquakes.”

Rangitata MP James Meager was equally emphatic in his support.

“The caucus is 100% united behind Christopher Luxon,” Meager said in a text message.

“We are now getting on with the job of fixing the basics and building the future for New Zealanders.”

However, Meager would not provide any further details about what took place during the meeting.

“We otherwise do not discuss or disclose what happens in caucus.”

Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg said, “I have full faith in Christopher Luxon as Prime Minister and I know he will lead the National Party to an election victory this November.”

Banks Peninsula MP Vanessa Weenink said, “The caucus is united behind the Prime Minister.”

Weenink reiterated Meager’s message.

“We are focussed on fixing the basics and building the future for New Zealanders.”

Labour leader Chris Hipkins said Luxon may have survived the challenge, but argued the leadership turmoil showed a Government distracted by internal problems.

“Christopher Luxon may have survived his latest leadership crisis, but New Zealanders are still stuck with a National government that has lost control,” Hipkins said.

“While Kiwis are struggling to pay the bills, National is focused on fighting amongst themselves.”

Hipkins accused National of spending too much time dealing with internal disputes instead of focusing on issues facing households.

“For three years we’ve watched Christopher Luxon lurch from one issue to another while Ministers fight with each other, fight with their own agencies and fight with the people they are supposed to serve.”

He said National had promised to improve the economy and bring down the cost of living, but claimed New Zealanders were instead facing higher costs and worsening financial pressure.

“Backstabbing and infighting just means more delay and more distraction for New Zealand. If National can’t govern itself, how can New Zealanders trust it to govern the country?”

Hipkins said Labour would campaign on jobs, affordable healthcare and housing.

“New Zealand doesn’t need another National leader. It needs a change of government,” he said.

Despite the political attacks and renewed speculation surrounding his position, Luxon emerged from Wednesday’s meeting still holding both the National Party leadership and the prime ministership.

MP for Ilam Hamish Campbell was not available for comment at time of publication.