Former two-term Prime Minister and ex-National Party leader /u/Fresh3001 today addressed the media outside his Tauranga mansion, flanked by /u/toastinrussian and /u/Mattsthetic. Standing in front of the large mahogany door which acted as a gate to the multi-million dollar compound, /u/Fresh3001 began to speak to the press.

“When I resigned as Prime Minister and National Party leader a month and a half ago, I did so to spend more time with my family and to better represent my constituents here in Tauranga, and across East Cape. However, having just spent two terms in government, I hadn’t quite realised how time consuming opposition would be. Even as the party whip, I found my time totally taken up by holding the government to account and presenting a better vision for New Zealand. I indeed spent more time with my family and in my electorate -- not as much as I would perhaps have hoped, but I did enjoy it.

“What I did notice was, in my electorate and around Wellington, I was constantly approached by supporters who said they missed my presence on the front bench. Many had asked why I had resigned prematurely, and even more asked me to return. Having discussed this matter with my family and with the party caucus, and having seen the two latest preferred Prime Minister polls, the party decided that it would be best that I return as party leader. /u/toastinrussian was in agreement with this proposal.

“One week ago, /u/toastinrussian resigned as the leader of the New Zealand National Party and a private leadership ballot took place where I ran for the party leadership uncontested. As the constitutionally mandated 7 day declaration period has ended, I have now been elected as party leader and Leader of the Opposition. In the coming days, I look forward to campaigning with /u/FinePorpoise in the Northland by-election, and I also wish the best of luck to ACT in the Waitemata by-election.

“As the leader of the New Zealand National Party, I pledge to hold this shambolic government to account and I will present a reasonable, centre-right alternative to the New Zealand people. I will lead an opposition which respects the rights of everyday New Zealanders, and which values private enterprise for the opportunities it creates for all. I will lead an opposition which values economic growth and stability, but which also recognises the need for sensibile investment in New Zealand’s vital public services. We will stand up for free trade and New Zealand’s global relationships, in defiance of the isolationists in government. This opposition will stand for Kiwi, liberal democratic values and it will aim to deliver for all New Zealanders.”

Everyone clapped.