John Key resigns – 5 December 2016

PM-elect John Key speaks at a news conference in Auckland on 9 November, 2008. Credit: AFP

After three terms in the spotlight, Mr Key is stepping down. Credit: RNZ / Diego Opotowski

With wife, Bronagh, and son, Max, walking to Parnell School to vote in 2014. He also has a daughter, Stephie. Credit: RNZ / Diego Opotowski

After casting his vote: Part of his appeal has been his casual persona. Credit: RNZ / Diego Opotowski

Speaking with reporters outside his house in Parnell on election night 2014. Credit: RNZ / Kate Newton

The PM during the caucus run on 21 July, 2015. Credit: RNZ / Alexander Robertson

After giving a pre-Budget speech to Business New Zealand in 2015. Credit: RNZ / Alexander Robertson

At BurgerFuel in Kuwait during a visit to the Gulf States in 2015

John and Bronagh Key at Gallipoli in 2015

Earlier days: Mr Key as a 25-year-old trader. Credit: Close Up special Big Dealers

Totally tropical in Efate in 2010

Former Australian PM Tony Abbott, right, said it was a "fine innings".

With Barack Obama in Kuala Lumpur in 2015. Credit: AFP

Mr Key fostered close ties with the British royal family, with Prince Harry among those to visit New Zealand.

With Prince William during a visit to Kapiti Island in 2010. Credit: AFP

With the Queen at Windsor Castle in 2011. Credit: AFP

Placing a bet on the Melbourne Cup 2015. Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson

Andrew Litttle, John Key and Bill English following the release of Budget 2016

John Key announces plans for a referendum on the New Zealand flag in March 2014. Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski

The prime minister in Kaikōura after the 2016 earthquakes. Credit: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

A sign for Prime Minister John Key in his electorate seat, Auckland's Helensville. Credit: RNZ / Bradley Ambrose

John Key and Anne Tolley on the grounds of the men's prison at Wiri

In a media scrum with RNZ's Jane Patterson

Observing a surgical training procedure at Porirua's Kenepuru Hospital. Photo: RNZ / Alex Ashton

John Key and Bill English, who has his support to replace him. Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski

The PM's departure will plunge the party into a leadership contest (file photo)