Ms Curran had shared ICT duties with other MPs but told the Otago Daily Times she had shown a lot of dedication to the "very important" portfolio.
"This is a nice little Christmas present. I am clearly serving at the leader’s pleasure but this is a very important portfolio.
"It is so important for us as a county to address the digital divide which is emerging."
ICT was the engine room of the economy and it had to become a priority. It was becoming recognised in the industry Labour was better in identifying opportunities for growth than the Government, she said.
ICT was forecast to be the second-largest contributor to GDP (gross domestic product) by 2025 but the country could do better, Ms Curran said.
Dunedin North MP David Clark remains at No9 and on Labour’s front bench. His responsibilities are unchanged on economic development, regional development, trade and export growth, associate health and associate finance.
Dr Clark said he would be focusing on the regions in the coming year. Labour had visited the regions this year, talking about the differences in its policies from that of the Government.
The "neglect" of the regions by the Government had put New Zealand exporters in a vulnerable place.
Labour leader Andrew Little said the reallocation of portfolios followed the retirements of David Cunliffe, Phil Goff and David Shearer and the arrival of new Mount Roskill MP Michael Wood.
David Parker also takes over foreign affairs from Mr Shearer.
Mr Little added the role of "new economy" to his role as leader and security and intelligence.
"We know we can do so much better as a country and the team I lead into next year’s election will be working as hard as ever to show New Zealanders Labour has a plan for the future.
"I am underlining how important this is by creating the new economy portfolio. ‘‘Labour is committed to growing wealth in the economy through greater innovation and productivity."
Stuart Nash gained state owned enterprises and would also be the new spokesman for innovation and science, and research and development.
Iain Lees-Galloway would be the new defence spokesman. Megan Woods added State Services to her duties
● Prime Minister Bill English announces his Cabinet reshuffle tomorrow.
