David Seymour says it is an “unfair characterisation” to suggest the coalition parties are "already squabbling" amongst each other over the role of deputy prime minister.
He made the comments shortly after arriving in Wellington this evening with ACT deputy leader Brooke Van Velden.
The pair are the latest top-ranked MPs to touch down in the capital – further feeding speculation an agreement is near for the new government.
Seymour denied ACT and New Zealand First are holding up the formation of a new government over the role – and have spent 30 days confirming policy and only a few deciding Cabinet positions.
“I think that’s what the media would like it to be, because that’s the simpler dynamic to report on,” Seymour said.
While Seymour wouldn’t confirm if both parties are making a play for the role of deputy prime minister, Christopher Luxon earlier confirmed the role is one of the final issues of contention in coalition talks.
National Party deputy Nicola Willis also stated she was 'not in the race' for the role.
Seymour wouldn’t confirm if he was going to speak with incoming prime minister Christopher Luxon tonight, but did tell media he expects his phone to continue “ringing and ringing”.
Earlier today, 1News captured National deputy leader Nicola Willis and National MP Chris Bishop arriving in Wellington, as well as New Zealand First deputy leader Shane Jones.
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