Where are the photos from the black tie dinner Mr Key?

The New Zealand Air Force should not be ferrying John Key around New Zealand so he can attend black tie dinners at exclusive golf clubs, Green Party Co-leader Metiria Tūrei said today.

Prime Minister John Key used an Air Force Iroquois over the weekend in order to get from photo opportunities at the Hamilton V8s to attend a black tie dinner at the Royal Auckland Golf Club in Otahuhu, Auckland.

“The Green Party has no problem with the Prime Minister using the Air Force in order to help out in emergencies or for important government business,” said Mrs Tūrei.

“We do have a problem with the Prime Minister commandeering the New Zealand Air Force so that he can get snapped at the V8s before heading off for an exclusive knees-up at the Royal Auckland Golf Club.”

Mrs Tūrei pointed out that while Mr Key was keen to be photographed at the V8s it was interesting that he didn’t seem so keen for the media to come with him to the Royal Auckland Golf Club’s black tie dinner.

“The Prime Minister has cultivated an image of being an ordinary New Zealander,” said Mrs Tūrei.

“However the Key Government’s policies are putting the squeeze on ordinary New Zealanders.

“Mr Key’s weekend jaunt shows he doesn’t understand the problems ordinary New Zealanders face.

“Mr Key could have solved his traffic problems by taking the train,” said Mrs Tūrei.

“Unfortunately his Government refuses to fund a Hamilton to Auckland line.