Following dramatic scenes earlier today, as then Deputy Prime Minister 12MaxWild threatened New Zealand with economic warfare, Prime Minister TheSensibleCentre has hurried to New Zealand to apologise.

In a public appearance with Jacinda Ardern, TSC said that "the Australian Government unreservedly apologises for the attempts of a now-backbencher to bully New Zealand with economic warfare. That is not who we are; that is not what we do."

The apology comes after the PM publicly demoted 12MaxWild from his ministries in a blistering statement.

Wild initially attempted to deny he had threatened New Zealand with tariffs should they not sign onto his proposed CANZUK deal, but was left publicly embarrassed after Prime Minister Ardern shared a copy of the text, revealing its authenticity.

"Australia seeks to engage in constructive diplomacy. It seeks to foster relationships built on mutual trust and understanding -- what Wild did undermines that trust, and I am glad your great nation can find it in your hearts to forgive Australia for the actions of this rogue actor," said the PM in her speech.

"We will continue on with a sensible foreign policy that positions Australia as a kind nation, rather than the bully politics favoured by Wild and, it would seem, the Commonwealth Party."

Her comment is in reference to the recent VoNC, which seems to indicate the CPA has closed ranks around its embattled leader. Political analysts expect this move will be punished by the electorate, who have a long track record of voting for softer foreign policy than the kind seemingly embraced my Wild.

Asked by a local reporter about the prospect of an election, the PM said, "well, that's just the price of principles. I could sit here and jeopardise Australia's standing with the entire world because I'm interested in staying in the top job a bit longer -- or I could go back to the Australian people, let them know I've stood up against a bully, and seek a renewed mandate. That is what I intend to do."

-Tim Schenectady, Pitchfork News