Election 2014: National win three more years with resounding win

John Key. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Three more years they chanted at the National Party headquarters as the scale of their resounding victory in Election 2014 became clear.

Winning a third term in office. John Key and the National Party increased their share of the party vote winning 48 percent of all the votes cast, while Labour and the Greens saw their share of the vote tumble from 2011.

By 10pm the scale of the victory had become apparent and Labour leader David Cunliffe called to concede defeat.

As National leader John Key arrived at his party's HQ, he said: I'm very, very happy, it's a huge night for us, it was always going to be a tough campaign."

"There are always winners and losers in an election campaign. In the end our polling was always very strong and we have had a good six year track record."

Addressing a packed gathering at the Viaduct Events Centre, John Key said: "Ladies and gentleman, this is a victory for those who kept the faith. This is great night.

"This is a victory for those who refused to be distracted and for those who knew a vote for National was a vote for a brighter future in New Zealand."

"Win or lose, campaigns can be tough and this was a tough one."

"For the third consecutive election night I stand here delighted that there are more National MPs than any other party. And for the third consecutive election night, I stand here ready to lead our country."

"Over a million of you and gave your party vote to National."

Mr Key said he was "humbled and energised".

Paula Bennett at Viaduct Events Centre tonight. Photo / Doug Sherring

He rang New Zealand's "best pollster" David Farrer "night after night, even though he wasn't supposed to", he said.

Mr Key promised that whoever people voted for tonight "I will pledge to you I will lead a Government that governs for all New Zealanders".

As well as thanking his wife and children, Mr Key also paid tribute to his finance minister.
"There's one person that made this victory possible, the best Minister of Finance in the developed world, Bill English.

Mr Key said that for the past six years he had enjoyed the privilege of leading and governing New Zealand.

"I believe in a Government that governs for all New Zealanders ... and I think as a nation we can agree on one thing, we are lucky to call this nation home," he said.

And yes, he told rapturous supporters, they had just won "three more years."

National supporters at the National election party at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland. Photo / Mark Mitchell

"So tonight, I've had a very gracious call from David Cunliffe who conceded defeat and I thanked him for that.

"I feel both humbled and energised by the result and the prospect of a third term. Can I take a moment to thank the voters of Helensville who election after election have given their vote to me."

National Minister Stephen Joyce, who spearheaded the campaign, said he had spoken to the Prime Minister but Mr Key had not discussed possible coalition partners.

Mr Joyce said he was surprised by the initial count.

"It's exceeded our expectations."