About Melissa

Melissa entered Parliament as a National list MP following National’s victory in the 2008 election. Her election made her the first Korean women to hold office outside of Korea in a National Assembly, and New Zealand’s first Korean MP.

Born in Korea, and growing up in Malaysia, Melissa moved to New Zealand as a young adult in 1988. Melissa’s background has ensured her place as a strong advocate for New Zealand's diverse ethnic communities within the National Caucus.

During her time in Parliament Melissa has served in a number of Parliamentary roles including as a Parliamentary Private Secretary, Chair of the Social Services and Commerce Select Committees and sitting on the Health and Education Committees.

Since the start of the 52nd Parliament Melissa Lee currently serves on the Economic Development, Innovation and Science Committee, Chairs the North Asia Parliamentary Friendship Group, is co-Chair of the Parliamentary Human Rights Network.

Her National Portfolios are as Opposition Spokesperson for Broadcasting & Media, Digital Economics and Communications, and Ethnic Communities. 

Her vision is for a country that is safe, secure, and prosperous.