National MP Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says he's deeply humbled and privileged to be the first National minister from the Pasifika community.
Prime Minister John Key appointed Mr Lotu-Iiga as Minister of Pacific Island Affairs - a position previously held by Hekia Parata on Tuesday.
Mr Lotu-Iiga also picked up the role of Associate Minister of Local Government. He says he's been working hard as a backbencher and is looking forward to a new challenge.
Mr Lotu-Iiga says his priority will be to bring about positive change for Pacific people in New Zealand, socially and economically.
The new minister will be sworn in on 28 January.
