The election was won by previous deputy leader Geoff Simmons.

TOP was founded in November 2016 by wealthy economist Gareth Morgan to advocate for "a prosperous, fair and equitable society".

TOP contested the 2017 general election gaining 2.44% of the vote, but won no seats in the New Zealand House of Representatives.

The new board embarked on a "listening tour" across the country to gauge supporters reactions and future interest.

The following party members contested the leadership:[4] The following table gives the members ballot results:[6] In addition to Simmons being elected leader, fellow leadership contestant Donna Pokere-Phillips was elected in a concurrent election to serve as TOP's membership representative on the party board.