Mike Jaspers, the Prime Minister's strategic communications chief adviser, has resigned from the role and leaves on Friday.
Jaspers, who was previously Jacinda Ardern's chief press secretary, moved sideways into the more backroom role earlier this year and was replaced by former Greens chief strategist and communications director Andrew Campbell.
A spokesperson said Jaspers had chosen to take a break and pursue new opportunities in the New Year.
"He's been a very valuable member of the Prime Minister's team and we are sad to see him go."
Jaspers' departure comes a week after one of Ardern's three other press secretaries, former journalist Julie Jacobson, also left.