Poll: Labour support grows but National still ahead

National has kept its lead in a new One News-Colmar Brunton poll, but Labour's support is on the rise.

The poll, broadcast last night, showed National with 45 per cent support, which is down 1 per cent from December. Labour is on 42 per cent, up 5 per cent.

Of the minor parties, the Greens remain unchanged on 6 per cent, New Zealand First is down 2 points to 4 per cent, while support for the Maori Party (2 per cent), United Future (1 per cent) and Act (1 per cent) remains unchanged.

While National maintained its lead over Labour, leader Don Brash's support as preferred prime minister slipped from 20 to 18 per cent.

Dr Brash has faced recent speculation of a challenge in his ranks.

But support for the man most often cited as his replacement, finance spokesman John key, remained unchanged on 7 per cent.

Helen Clark's preferred prime minister rating rose from 37 to 39 per cent.

In September's election Labour won about 41 per cent of the popular vote, compared with 39 per cent for National.

- NZPA