Key says goodbye

Former prime minister John Key made his farewells to Parliament yesterday evening, bowing out of the political arena following his resignation in November.

‘‘I rise to address the House for the very last time,’’ he began his valedictory speech. ‘‘It’s been an honour.’’ Key described his 15 years in Parliament: ‘‘Excitement, trepidation, fear and hope. All consuming, life-changing ... sometimes trivial but never boring.’’

Among the achievements he listed were: The national cycleway; the Government’s support of the movie industry; the herceptin funding decision; balancing the books.

But he said he relitigate the flag debate.

‘‘I regret TPP not getting over the line, trade had helped millions of people get out of poverty.

‘‘I hope one day the Kermadecs will be an ocean sanctuary so that long after we’re all gone, it will still be pristine and untouched.’’

Getting to travel to some of the world’s most incredible countries and locations with his family, including visiting the Queen at Balmoral, was a career highlight.

Key paid tribute to all of New Zealand’s response to the Christchurch earthquakes.

He thanked son Max, daughter Stephie and remarked on the ‘‘endless sacrifice’’ of wife Bronagh.

The trio were watching on from the gallery. ‘‘I was proud of being the 38th prime minister, but your mum and I are prouder still of being your parents.’’

A caucus-led waiata completed Key’s speech.

Key then held a farewell bash in the Beehive’s Banquet Hall with about 300 guests celebrating his time at the top of the Cabinet table. wouldn’t