Last night's debate was less important to Winston Peters than it was a week ago, thanks to the teacup tapes giving him a national profile for three nights running.
He managed to keep his contempt under control and showed good manners in thanking TVNZ for letting him on the show.
The party leader who needed to perform best given the debacle of the past week - and past year - was Act's Don Brash.
He didn't. He was rusty and has yet to master the art of making Act economic policy sound relevant to ordinary people, as ousted leader Rodney Hide did effortlessly.
It didn't help Brash any that debate mediator Guyon Espiner referred to John Banks as the Act leader.
Hone Harawira showed his ability to roll charm and conviction into one.
Tariana Turia showed why she has earned the respect of many people who dislike her Maori Party's policies.
But Greens co-leader Russel Norman did best: articulate, reasoned, and open to debate. The party lost momentum with the billboard attacks. His performance may help to regain it.
