Bill English's first formal coalition meeting with Winston Peters was "civil and constructive and focused on policy" he says, and he's feeling positive about what was discussed.
Coalition negotiations officially started yesterday, after special vote results were released Saturday.
On TVNZ1's Breakfast this morning, host Hilary Barry asked what Mr Peters' 'vibe' was during the negotiation yesterday.
"Mr Peters understands his position and I think he understands ours," Mr English said.
"We're the biggest party by a significant margin, he's got a swing vote he's using much more effectively than the Greens, so he's playing his cards."
Mr English said "quite a lot" of different issues were discussed.
Bill English explains the negotiating team on TVNZ1’s Breakfast this morning. (Source: Other)
"He said himself, [Mr Peters'] is focused on the policies."
Both National and Labour's meetings with NZ First lasted over two hours, with Mr English saying there was "good progress made" but "there's a lot of work to do".
"We turn up, they've got an agenda, we'll work through it."
SHARE ME