6 May 2014

MPs declare pecuniary interests

8:28 pm on 6 May 2014

The latest register of MPs' financial interests - which includes property ownership, company directorships and gifts received - has been tabled in Parliament.

Labour Party leader David Cunliffe declares donations from three individuals towards his leadership campaign last year, which he said were disclosed to him on 28 February this year.

He said that money was spent on graphic design, printing and reimbursing volunteers for expenses.

Mr Cunliffe originally tried to funnel donations through a trust but was forced to declare them publicly.

Boston Consulting Group senior partner and managing director Perry Keenan, businessman Tony Gibbs and hi-tech entrepreneur Selwyn Pellett, who gave a total of $9500, agreed to have their names made public.

Two people who gave $8300 between them were unwilling to waive confidentiality and so their money was returned.

Departing Labour MP Shane Jones declared donations from National Party stalwart Wira Gardner, and Rodger Finlay from New Zealand Oil and Gas towards his leadership campaign.

Prime Minister John Key declared a family trust and a blind trust, as well as several properties, including in New Zealand, the United States and England.

He also declared several gifts, including All Black clothing, three golf memberships, an i-Pad from the Sultan of Brunei and a watermelon ornament from the president of Mexico.