The conservative Opposition was previously led by Zak Kirkup of the Liberal Party.
In the 2021 election, the Liberal Party ended up winning fewer seats than the National Party, headed by Davies, with the National Party gaining opposition status and Davies becoming the first Nationals opposition leader since 1947.
Shadow ministerial positions were also held by parliamentary members of both parties.
[2] This was similar to the agreements between both parties when they were in government following the 2008 and 2013 elections.
Under the alliance, each party maintained their independence, and could speak out on issues when there was a disagreement with their partner.