Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand The Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand is an unofficial title, the holder of which, by convention, is the host or hostess of Premier House, the official residence of the Prime Minister. An unpaid position that has no official responsibilities, the role has gained significance since the 1960s, with the Prime Minister's spouse acting as a key national figure on social issues and a prominent symbol of government. The Spouse also assists the Prime Minister in welcoming foreign dignitaries to Parliament House and the official residences. The 23rd Prime Minister,
Minister for the Olympics continued as Minister for the Olympics, but held the portfolios of Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General from June 2009 until 11 May 2010, when the Labour government lost the 2010 general election. Following the 2010 general election, the role was merged with the position of Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport to create the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport at the beginning of the Cameron Ministry. Jeremy Hunt held the post until the London Paralympics closed, and the post reverted to its old name. Unlike the Cabinet position, the post in