Politicians are paying tribute to former National Party deputy leader Nikki Kaye, who has died after a battle with cancer.
The former MP for Auckland Central was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016 and left Parliament at the 2020 general election.
Kaye, 44, was a widely respected politician who was considered to be a tireless worker with a keen grasp of policy detail.
Prime Minister and Botany MP Christopher Luxon has posted a tribute to her on social media.
“Nikki Kaye’s contribution to our party, her community, and New Zealand has left an indelible mark,” he says.
“Her tireless dedication, sharp intellect, and tenacity earned her the respect of people across the political spectrum.
“She was a remarkable person and a crusader for what she believed in, and her contribution has left our country in a better place. May she rest in peace.”
“It is with heavy hearts that the National Party acknowledges the passing of Hon Nikki Kaye,” a party spokesperson says.
“A National Party stalwart, involved with the party since 1999, Nikki was a member of the Young Nationals and a researcher in the National Leader’s Office before winning selection as the party’s candidate to contest Auckland Central at the 2008 election.
“Nikki approached her candidacy with the same gusto with which she lived her life – full of energy, enthusiasm and a tireless work ethic.
“Her sheer strength of character and determination, in the face of what was an uphill battle, saw her unseat Hon Judith Tizard in 2008 to become the first National MP in Auckland Central ending the left’s 90-year reign.
“She held the seat until her retirement from politics at the 2020 election.
“As the local MP Nikki went on to handle over 50,000 constituency cases and was a staunch environmental advocate.
“Nikki was also a strong advocate for youth, women and the LGBTQ community where she made many strong connections and friends.
“Nikki Kaye committed more to our party than any political party could hope for or ask of anyone.
“She is a great loss to us and the many New Zealanders whose lives she sought to improve daily. Our thoughts are with Nikki’s family and friends.”
Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins says the news of Kaye’s death is incredibly sad.
“Nikki Kaye and I were opposite numbers at Parliament in the education portfolio, and I would describe us very fondly as frenemies.
“I had a lot of respect for her and how she went about her work.
“I didn’t agree with all of her decisions but found her immensely reasonable.
“She poured her heart and soul into the electorate and she always pushed for better for children and young people.
“I am very sad to hear the news today. My condolences to her family, friends and former colleagues.”
Kaye visited east Auckland in July, 2020, to help launch a new facility at Elim Christian College’s Junior Campus in Golflands.
She was joined for the visit by National Party colleagues Nicola Willis, Simeon Brown and Christopher Luxon.
Elim principal Murray Burton spoke during the event, saying Elim was one of the two last schools Kaye was visiting before she retired from politics.
“We would like to thank her for her service to the nation and for her courage, resilience and perseverance, despite the odds,” he said as she received a standing ovation.
Kaye told the attendees about teenager Gabby Devine, who was diagnosed with cancer at an early age.
“Though she was miserably sick, she prepared care packages to deliver to hospitals.
“I met Gabby and wanted to give her the Young New Zealand Youth Award but unfortunately she passed away before that.
“Later, both John Key and I presented the award to her parents who were so overwhelmed.”
Kaye told the Times at Elim that when she retired from politics she would miss walking into homes, schools and businesses and talking to people and listen to them share their stores.
“But then again I have worked 100 hours a week for a very long time and have contributed a lot to New Zealand. I have put my body on the line and need to replenish it.
“I am going to use this time to reflect, to heal, to rest. I will read, reconnect, go running, spend time outdoors and try to be a good aunty.
“I have got lots of job offers but I am not going to take up anything right now.
“When I do, I know it will be something that is to do with helping people.”
