A look back over John Key's rapid rise to power and his tumultuous three terms in office as Prime Minister, as he guided New Zealand through tragedy and change
A wave of disbelief was felt across the world today after John Key's out-of-the-blue resignation. Here are the top 10 reactions to the soon to be former PM's shock announcement.
Key's resignation was widely picked up by international media including The Guardian, CNN and BBC who published the news ontheir home pages.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull texted Key, who he described on Twitter as a "great friend", from across the ditch: "Say it ain't so, bro". He later acknowledged Key on Twitter as an "inspiring world leader".
John Key has been an extraordinary & inspiring world leader, role model and great friend. His resignation is a great loss for NZ & the world
Comedian Rhys Darby also joked about taking over as Prime Minister, given Flight of The Concords star Jemaine Clement and director Taika Waititi join him in his Cabinet.
Flattered with the request to take over as new NZ PM but... I'll only accept if @AJemaineClement@TaikaWaititi and Bret join my cabinet.
A joke Facebook event "John Key Resignation Piss Up" has been set up, promising Winston Peters as DJ and Bill English "flaming some snags" on the barbie. Almost 3000 people have expressed interest in the party.
The announcement was dubbed #Jexit on social media this afternoon.
