Relative slams use of Sir Ernest's image

Sir Ernest Rutherford appears on the New Zealand 100 dollar bill. Photo / Supplied

A relative of Sir Ernest Rutherford is objecting to his image being used in a Labour Party election campaign.

One of the party's flyers states "Labour policies will put more money in your pocket" and has a $100 bill printed on one of its sides, complete with Sir Ernest's picture.

The advertisement has upset the famous scientist's great niece, Mary Rutherford, who said it was not right for the picture to be used in an election campaign.

"I don't want a song and dance about it, I just thought it was quite inappropriate."

Ms Rutherford said she had written to the Labour Party to request the flyer be withdrawn.

Labour campaign spokesman Grant Robertson said the party was not intending to politicise Sir Ernest.

"What we're doing is using the $100 note that happens to have his face on it."