An analysis of Winston Peters' political positioning reveals the Deputy Prime Minister has achieved something remarkable: he appears to be simultaneously serving in government and opposition.The veteran New Zealand First leader has been publicly criticizing policies he's supposedly responsible for implementing while claiming credit for decisions he opposed internally - a classic Peters manoeuvre taken to new heights."It's a masterclass in political positioning," observed one political commentator. "He gets the benefits of being in government - the ministerial salary, the travel, the influence - while also positioning himself as an outsider critic when things go wrong."Peters has a long history of this kind of political gymnastics, having served in multiple governments while maintaining his image as an anti-establishment figure. But the current coalition arrangement appears to have given him unprecedented latitude.Recent examples include Peters publicly questioning immigration policies his government is implementing, criticizing spending decisions made by cabinet he sits on, and distancing himself from controversial positions the coalition has taken.For his supporters, it's evidence of Peters fighting the good fight from within. For critics, it's cynical positioning that undermines government coherence."At some point, you have to own the decisions of the government you're part of," said one political analyst. "You can't have it both ways forever."Peters has shown no sign of changing his approach. At 81, the veteran politician appears to be enjoying one last run in power - on his own terms.