John Key is resigning as Prime Minister of New Zealand.
Mr Key made the announcement at his weekly press conference this afternoon.
His voice shaking with emotion, Mr Key said he told his Cabinet of his decision this morning.
"This is the hardest decision I've ever made and I don't know what I'll do next."
Whanganui MP Chester Borrows paid tribute to Mr Key, saying he was "the best Prime Minister New Zealand has ever had".