Updated: 6:13am – The National Party has contacted New Zealand First to get coalition talks underway.
National leader Bill English spoke to media this afternoon, saying he was delighted at the level of support the party got last night, showing the country wanted a stable and secure future.
Mr English says he has been working with his team this morning about their approach for the future and they have contacted New Zealand First.
“We expect [talks] will happen in the next few days, and negotiations will begin from that point.”
He reiterated his stance that a two-party coalition would be much more stable for New Zealand rather than a Labour, Greens, New Zealand First partnership.
But on what the talk with Mr Peters would involve, Mr English was coy, saying he would rather sit face-to-face and discuss options than do it through the media.
He expects to talk one on one with Mr Peters soon but added they will move at the pace dictated by New Zealand First.
Labour leader Jacinda Ardern admits it is up to Winston Peters to determine who forms the next government.
She said Labour will do its best to bring New Zealand First on board.
“The final outcome won’t be decided by us. I simply cannot predict at this point what decisions other leaders will make.”
National leader Bill English has confirmed ACT Party leader David Seymour will not be part of Government.
Earlier today, Mr Seymour said he is resigned to the fact that he would probably be in the opposition but he was determined to continue his work from there.
Mr English didn’t think it was unfair for ACT to be dumped, despite having supported National through the last three terms.
“I think it would complicate a governing arrangement, there’s no doubt about that, and we can get a clear cut majority working with New Zealand First. I’ve spoken to David Seymour – I think he understands how the numbers stack up.”
-Newstalkzb
