Hunt checking out pension

New Zealand's new High Commissioner to London, former Speaker Jonathan Hunt, has made inquiries into his eligibility to a $125-a-week British pension.

Mr Hunt says he has asked Britain's Work and Pension Department about the pension and is waiting to hear whether he qualifies. "I'm not doing anything I'm not entitled to."

Mr Hunt - who is paid at least $125,000 a year - said he had to relinquish $13,000 a year in NZ Super while he was out of New Zealand.

Known around Parliament as the Minister of Wine and Cheese, Mr Hunt stood down as Speaker in March.