1 NEWS' Corin Dann says it may take some time for leadership hopefuls to put themselves forward, but predicts two to four hopefuls will throw their hat in the ring for National's top spot.
The National Party stalwart paid a touching tribute to his biggest supporters as he resigned from Parliament this morning.
He said Tauranga MP Simon Bridges could be a front running possibility.
After John Key stepped down as Prime Minister in 2016, Bill English and Paula Bennett were elected unopposed as a team to lead the country, but Bridges did make an unsuccessful run at the deputy PM's position.
The Jacinda-effect claims another victim with Mr English deciding he’s not the man to lead National forward.
Amy Adams, who stood with Bill English in January, when he was quashing leadership speculation, could also be among those vying for the job.
Ms Kaye says she had not been contacted by other caucus MPs over a leadership change.
Nikki Kaye and Jonathan Coleman, and even Steven Joyce and Paula Bennet could also take a shot.
Dann suggested wild card options of Mark Mitchell and Todd Muller.
"I think you'll just see a lot of jockeying as they look to see who has the numbers."
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