By Peter Wilson, Political Writer
Experienced Labour MPs will take on the Government's senior ministers in the new parliament.
Leader David Shearer unveiled a front bench on Monday designed to handle the heat of the debating chamber and it includes a key role for defeated challenger David Cunliffe.
Holding the economic development portfolio, he's going to be facing fourth-ranked cabinet minister Steven Joyce.
The new finance spokesman is Labour's top number cruncher and policy architect David Parker, who will take on Finance Minister Bill English.
Clayton Cosgrove stays on the front bench and he's been given state-owned enterprises so he can lead the fight against the partial sale of four power companies.
"He's going to be our bulldog on asset sales," Mr Shearer says.
When it comes to front bench experience there's one exception - Jacinda Ardern, promoted from the back bench to number four and holding the welfare portfolio which is going to be another battleground.
The second term MP was a top performer in the last parliament and she'll be handling Social Development Minister Paula Bennett.
"She's extraordinarily talented and this is a fresh start for Labour," Mr Shearer says.
Ms Ardern's portfolio was previously held by former deputy leader Annette King, who has slipped to 17 in the ranks.
Mr Shearer has the most difficult job, facing Prime Minister John Key across the floor of the debating chamber.
He's relatively inexperienced as well, but the caucus elected him because Labour's MPs believe he has the steel and determination to deal with Mr Key.
NZN