Don Brash hopes he's on the comeback trail - not just to the corridors of power - but to his wife's affections.
The Act Party leader, who turned 71 yesterday, and wife Je Lan separated in December 2008 after 18 years of marriage amid accusations of infidelity on Brash's part.
But on Friday Brash told the Herald on Sunday of how they were "making good progress" towards a reconciliation.
"Je Lan and I separated nearly four years ago now. And for about two-and-a-half of those years I've been trying to achieve a reconciliation and we frequently have dinner together." He said they were having dinner together tonight and tomorrow night.
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Advertise with NZME.Asked where they would be dining, Brash replied: "She, as you may know, is Singaporean, and I mention that because Singaporeans tend to be foodies. They like good food ... she prefers to go to a good restaurant occasionally rather than an indifferent restaurant frequently."
They hadn't decided which fine dining establishment it would be for his birthday, he said.
Je Lan Brash didn't wish to comment. They have a son together. He has two adult children from a previous marriage.
Brash announced last week he would stand against National's Maggie Barry in the North Shore electorate in this year's general election.