New Zealand is closer to having a government with Winston Peters as second-in-command, predicts 1 NEWS' political reporter Katie Bradford, after his one-on-one meetings with Bill English and Jacinda Ardern last night.
"It could be today or tomorrow he might say 'we're steering in this direction'," Ms Bradfold told TVNZ1's Breakfast this morning.
"The NZ First board and caucus are at a point where they know what policies they want. They know what they're happy with."
The NZ First leader said last night they were about 90-95 per cent of the way there.
"What that signals is that [Winston Peters] is going back to National and Labour, saying 'ok, what else can you give me'," said Ms Bradford.
The National leader exited a coalition chat with Mr Peters tonight, involving just the two of them, in Wellington.
However going back to National and Labour could take some time.
"Those parties then have to sign off their agreement, and what we don't know is how quickly that can happen."
Ministerial roles will also need to be discussed.
"I would predict he will be deputy prime minister whoever he goes with," Ms Bradford said.
It's not a done deal, even when Winston Peters announces his party's choice.
She also thought there could be ministerial positions for MPs Ron Mark and possibly Tracey Martin.
In terms of policy, Ms Bradford said there could be talk of the creation of a Superannuation Ministry and changes to regional and economic development.
"I think we will see some big moves in that area, that could be what some of those discussions are about."
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