The political

Today

All eyes are on the National Party as we formally say goodbye to New Zealand’s most popular prime minister and acknowledge the ascension of Bill English as John Key’s replacement. While Key’s shock resignation last week sent political whirring at breakneck speed, the leadership race is all but decided. It’s up to National to have their formal vote today, to appoint English and Paula Bennett as his deputy. Once the vote is taken, Key will formally resign at Government House to Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy, and English will be officially sworn in as prime minister.

Tomorrow

Questions will centre on the makeup of an English cabinet. This may not be the day he announces the deals that got him across the line, but English likely won’t dally in appointing his Government.

Wednesday

It’s the last day of the parliamentary sitting year, and may MPs may be forgiven for voting that the House rises early – especially as the Press Gallery Christmas Party is on. It’s the biggest ticket on the beltway calendar, allowing journalists and politicians from across the political divide to leave their grudges at the door and mingle over a few wines.

Thursday

Politics for the year all but stops as our MPs clear out. Watch out for the yearly dump of sensitive documents, though.