PM fails to back a winner in Cup

Prime Minister John Key and National's candidate for the Mana by-election, Hekia Parata, enjoy Melbourne Cup festivities at Sand Bar in Mana, north of Wellington. Photo / Derek Cheng

Prime Minister John Key failed to back Melbourne Cup winner Americain but he isn't taking that as a omen for the chances of his party's candidate in the Mana by-election, Hekia Parata.

Mr Key watched the race at a bar in Mana, north of Wellington, with Ms Parata and a host of other National MPs.

He and Ms Parata both put $20 to win on each Illustrious Blue and Maluckyday.

While Maluckyday came in second, Mr Key was earlier clear his party was looking for a different result in Mana.

"There's no second place in politics," he said.

- NZPA