Labour MP Trevor Mallard has his party's backing to become the next parliamentary speaker.
It's parliament's first task to elect a speaker and the 30 year veteran is the favourite.
His party's full caucus including soon-to-be prime minister Jacinda Ardern are backing him for the job.
"Certainly I have high hopes for Mr Mallard. I think he will make an excellent speaker," Ms Ardern said on Friday.
"He does have the support and endorsement of the Labour caucus. Certainly I hope to have the [additional] support for Trevor because he'll be an excellent speaker."
Candidates for the position are nominated and a vote is held in parliament.
National's David Carter was speaker in the last parliament.
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