Latest from NZ National Party

Audrey Young: Cunliffe, Key and that poll

It was disappointing to hear David Cunliffe suggesting today's Herald DigiPoll survey putting Labour at 29.5 per cent is off the mark, writes Audrey Young.

Cunliffe: 'We've got more work to do'

David Cunliffe says National's support will corrode over perceptions of crony capitalism - but admits there's more work for Labour to do after today's abysmal poll result.

Nats soar, Labour dives in new poll

Labour's support has sunk nearly six points and it is polling only 29.5 per cent in the <i>Herald</i>-DigiPoll survey.

John Armstrong: Key's politics hoisted on high in timing of vote

Opponents see Key as using the flag to surreptitiously tap into the rich veins of patriotism and national identity that lurk in voters' subconscious, writes John Armstrong.

Bob Jones: Bizarre, John? No, bowel checks save lives

My colonoscopy involved sedation providing a 15-20 minute sleep, so light I woke up during it and watched for a time before dozing off again, writes Bob Jones.

Milk firm has hosted string of Nats

A string of National Party high-flyers have been entertained by the milk exporter at the centre of a conflict of interest row involving Justice Minister Judith Collins

John Armstrong: Poll date an advantage - without upsetting voters

In setting September 20 as the date for the election, the PM has just managed to avoid looking like he is using his position to questionable advantage, writes John Armstrong.

National picks business boss for Napier race

National's election-year overhaul of MPs and contenders continued over the weekend with the selection of Wayne Walford to contest the battleground Napier seat.

'Cuppa' claim over visit wrong: MP

Labour MP Grant Robertson says Judith Collins' claim that she dropped in to Oravida in Shanghai for a casual cup of tea does not ring true.

Claire Robinson: Let's get a royal stamp of approval

Claire Robinson asks; "Why bad policy making? Because neither Cabinet nor the general public are capable of making the best decision for NZ on the design of the flag of the future."

Key plays wait-and-see on party favours

National will leave decisions about endorsement of other parties such as Act and the Conservatives possibly as late as the election campaign.

Work with Peters, poll says

New energy driving Act, says hopeful

Young Epsom candidate says party bent on putting internal wrangling in past.

NZ First's power balance

New Zealand First would hold the balance of power if the results of the first major political poll of the year were translated to an election result.

John Armstrong: Tough-talking Key drapes a flag over rival

In what is quickly becoming a year-long de facto election campaign, one can guarantee National will drum in the message that Cunliffe is a politician who cannot be trusted, writes John Armstrong.

Full battle jacket as MPs squabble

Justice Minister Judith Collins says Greens co-leader Metiria Turei is a "sanctimonious hypocrite" for championing the poor while dressing in expensive designer clothes.

What the blazers ... ? MPs' jacket spat

The long running tit-for-tat between Metiria Turei and senior Government ministers over her clothes has reignited again with claims of racism and hypocrisy.

Cunliffe denies misleading the public

'We've been absolutely clear in all the materials.' David Cunliffe has defended against accusations he mislead the public over his $60 baby bonus.