Gerry has served as a Senior Cabinet Minister in both the John Key and Bill English led Governments, most noticeably for his work as the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister soon after a devastating 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch on September 4 2010.

His role expanded following 22 February 2011 when a 6.3 magnitude quake hit the city, killing 185 people and resulting in widespread residential and commercial property destruction. The earthquakes, and subsequent rebuild of New Zealand's second largest city, are the country's costliest event.

Gerry has represented New Zealand as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and as Minister of Defence.