View source for 1954 New Zealand Labour Party leadership election

The 1954 New Zealand Labour Party leadership election was held on June 23, 1954, with Walter Nash, the incumbent leader, winning the contest. Nash had been Labour's leader since 1951 but faced criticism for his handling of issues like the waterfront dispute, where his neutral stance displeased both sides and led to accusations of indecision. This contributed to Labour's heavy defeat in the 1951 snap election. By 1953, internal dissatisfaction grew, with Rex Mason informing Nash that caucus members were questioning his leadership. In February 1954, MP Angus McLagan referenced a newspaper article critical of Nash, prompting a call for a new leadership vote.

Nash faced opposition from Arnold Nordmeyer, who had been an MP since 1935 and served as party president. Despite caucus doubts, Nash maintained strong support from trade unions and party branches nationwide. Nordmeyer was speculated to have leaked the media report critical of Nash but lacked sufficient backing.

The election result showed Nash securing majority caucus support, with only nine votes cast against him. Four Maori MPs abstained. The outcome was influenced by grassroots members and unions, with some MPs switching their support to Nash due to growing opposition to a leadership change.

Following the election, the affair drew little public or party support. Nordmeyer, along with Bill Anderton and Phil Connolly, faced scrutiny from Labour's National Executive. Nash remained leader until 1963, when he retired, and Nordmeyer succeeded him but held the position for only two years. Jerry Skinner retained his role as deputy-leader unopposed.