A former New Zealand National Party minister has died aged 44.
Former Auckland Central MP and former National Party deputy leader Nikki Kaye has died after a long battle with breast cancer, it was announced on Monday.
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said in a social media post that she was “deeply saddened” by the news.
“Nikki was someone I got to know quite well over the years we faced each other at Auckland Central,” he wrote.
‘We may have been opponents, but there were many things I admired about Nikki.
‘She worked incredibly hard, cared passionately about her constituents and was always willing to accept that an idea was good or bad, based on her values and not just politics. We’ve laughed a lot over the years, and while we may have had some decent debates, nothing felt genuinely personal to us.
‘I’m sorry I didn’t know Nikki was unwell again, if I had known I would have liked to have spoken to her one more time.
‘Rest in peace, Nikki. Politics was better to have you in it.
Jacinda Ardern (right) said she was “deeply saddened” by the death of Nikki Kaye (left).
Kaye left politics in 2020, four years after her breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy.
The 44-year-old was elected to parliament in 2008 as Auckland Central MP, a position she held until late 2020, and was deputy leader of the National Party under former leader Todd Muller that same year.
Ms Kaye also held numerous ministerial positions including Education, Accident Compensation Corporation and Civil Defence.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to Ms Kaye, describing her as a “remarkable and crusading person” who left an indelible mark on politics.
“Nikki Kaye’s contribution to our party, her community and New Zealand has left an indelible mark,” Luxon said.
‘His tireless dedication, keen intellect and tenacity earned him the respect of people across the political spectrum.
‘She was a remarkable person and a champion of what she believed in, and her contribution has left our country in a better place. Rest in peace.’
Deputy National Leader Nicola Willis described Ms Kaye as one of the “bravest MPs” New Zealand has ever had.
“Nikki was one of the bravest MPs New Zealand has ever had, and fiercely promoted the liberal values and causes she believed in,” Ms Willis said.
He loved the National Party and contributed much of his soul to it.
“I will be forever grateful for the contribution he made to my own career and personal development.”
He added that Kaye remained brave during her battle with cancer.
‘Nikki lived vibrantly and well. “His impact on others was immense and the memories were great,” Mrs Willis said.
‘We have lost one of the specials. Let us be grateful for his incredible life.”
More to come…