The Government is coming to the end of its worst week in power after almost six months of relatively trouble-free political management.
Radio New Zealand's political editor says the Government's run of problems ended with the National Party's Mt Albert candidate, list MP Melissa Lee, attracting criticism for claiming the proposed Waterview motorway in Auckland would foil criminals from South Auckland.
Ms Lee's comment prompted Prime Minister John Key to label it silly, but he stuck by her.
The Government's political difficulties started with a decision to appoint the former head of Work & Income, Christine Rankin, as a Families Commissioner - despite strong opposition from United Future Party leader and Revenue Minister, Peter Dunne.
It all came during a week that saw the Government announcing its decision on the Waterview tunnel and started pushing through the legislation on the Auckland supercity, both highly contentious issues.
