4 Aug 2011

NZ First leader will fight to get into election debates

4:12 pm on 4 August 2011

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters says he'll go to court if that's what it takes to secure him a place in this year's televised election debates.

Prime Minister John Key is refusing to debate any leader other than Labour's Phil Goff, while Mr Goff says he'll front up whenever Mr Key does.

New Zealand First failed to secure enough votes to return to Parliament at the last election, polling just below the 5% threshold.

However, Mr Peters says the fact his party has had consistent electoral support over the years means he should be included in this year's debates.

He says the party will look at every option available to it, including legal action.