Winston Peters has successfully had keyhole surgery this morning after visiting his doctor with food poisoning symptoms and dehydration earlier this week.
Photo: RNZ /Dom Thomas
The deputy prime minister and New Zealand First leader is taking medical leave this week and had been advised to undergo a surgical procedure whilst Parliament is in recess.
Peters said he remains confident of a quick return to work - as well as being fighting fit for the election campaign, which is typically physically gruelling.
This means New Zealand First will combine its campaign launch with the Party AGM on Sunday 19 July.
However, the party will still hold an event in Whangārei on Sunday to launch its 'Force from North' campaign with Northland and Whangārei candidates Shane Jones and David Wilson.
"This is an unexpected medical event and of course unexpected timing. However the doctor's advice on having surgery needs to be followed," Peters said.
Following a brief hospital visit Peters will have a post-operative period of recuperation at home.