The sudden resignation of Todd Muller will see the National Party caucus gather today to decide on a new leader.
In the meantime, Nikki Kaye is the party's acting leader.
Former Finance Minister Steven Joyce told Kerre McIvor his read of things is the mounting pressure was causing health concerns for Muller.
Joyce told Kerre McIvor Muller's shock decision has to be respected.
"Part of these things in knowing it's not for you. Once you know in your heart that you cannot do this for whatever reason, then you have to put your hand up and walk away."
Joyce says a 'night watchman' leader would be undermining the role of an opposition.
"The days of any caucus thinking, oh we we will put in a caretaker in and see how it goes, you are just consigning yourself to another three years."
LISTEN ABOVE
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.