Judy Kirk resigns as National Party president

Judy Kirk has been National Party president since 2002. Photo / Mark Mitchell

National Party President Judy Kirk is stepping down.

Mrs Kirk will remain at the helm until the party's annual conference in August.

"When I was elected President in 2002 the Party was facing very challenging times. But with the success at the 2008 general election, I feel I have met all of my objectives in the role and that it is an appropriate time for me to step aside," Mrs Kirk said in a statement.

During her time as president, Mrs Kirk witnessed National's narrow loss in the 2005 election under Don Brash before the party's victory in 2008, led by Prime Minister John Key.

"It has been a privilege to be President of the National Party. I would like to thank the Board, former Board members and all Party members for their support and their tireless hard work for the National Party," Mrs Kirk said.

- NZHERALD STAFF