The Labour Party's new leader and deputy leader are warning that the incoming National-led Government will face a tough time.
Phil Goff was elected Labour leader and Annette King deputy leader unopposed on Tuesday at the party's first caucus meeting since the election.
David Cunliffe takes the role of finance spokesperson, and former Prime Minister Helen Clark becomes foreign affairs spokesperson.
Mr Goff says Labour will support National when it is pursuing policies which are good for New Zealand.
However, he says Labour will strongly oppose changes - such as cutting the KiwiSaver benefits - which are bad.
Ms King says National had over-promised and will struggle to deliver on its commitments, particularly given the international financial and economic crisis.
Both say Labour's quick and peaceful transition to a new leadership team means it is ready to hold the new National-led Government to account from day one.
Phil Goff, 55, holds the seat of Mt Roskill in Auckland. He first entered Parliament in 1981, was defeated in 1990 and re-elected in 1993.
He held Defence, Trade, Corrections and Associate Finance portfolios in the last term.
New deputy leader, former Police Minister Annette King, is the MP for Rongotai. She entered Parliament in 1984.
"I think that I have the ability to work amongst the caucus, to ensure that we have a strong united team," she said after her selection.
"I'm also not just a smiling face, I can bring to the front bench of the opposition some toughness, some debating skills that we're going to need, because we're determined to be the best opposition we can."
Right decision - Clark
Before the meeting of Labour MPs on Tuesday Miss Clark said she was comfortable with her decision to resign as Labour leader.
"It's been 15 incredible years and it's been a privilege to do the job, and I think do it to the best of my ability and well.
But I've made the right decision for the Labour Party and for myself and I'm looking forward to giving the new team my total and unconditional support."
Mr Goff paid tribute to Helen Clark and former deputy leader Michael Cullen, who resigned on Sunday, saying their skill, determination and competence are acknowledged even by their critics.
