Simon Bridges says he "regrets" calling National MP Jami-Lee Ross' health issue that forced him to take personal leave "embarrassing".
On Tuesday, Mr Bridges said Mr Ross came to him last week about the health issues, and that it was important to "work through this, what is sensitive, perhaps actually embarrassing, a lot embarrassing potentially" and that is "does take some time".
Read more: Simon Bridges maintains MP Jami-Lee Ross' personal leave not related to travel expenses leak
Speaking to media in Tauranga today, the National Party leader has apologised for labelling the issue in such a manner.
"I regret it I think it's a poor choice of words, as I clarified and have said now a number of times, I was simply saying that anyone whether an MP or not would prefer personal health matters dealt with privately rather than public but I do regret it," Mr Bridges said.
He explained that he came forward about Mr Ross' reasons for taking leave so his party could be transparent with the public.
"We wanted to be open and transparent, while also respecting it's a personal and private health matter," he said.
Mr Bridges still maintains that Mr Ross' personal leave is not related to the leaking of the National leader's travel expenses and instead he is "focused on his wellbeing" as the MP takes a few months off to deal with personal health issues.
The report into who leaked the expenses is expected to be released within the next two weeks.
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