PM resting in Singapore, but with a close eye Mandela's health

Prime Minister John Key is having a holiday in Singapore.Photo / File

The Prime Minister left for Singapore last night for a week's rest and recreation with his family.

John Key said before leaving, the precarious health status of Nelson Mandela is being closely monitored and if he does pass away his holiday plans could change.

"If Nelson Mandela was to pass away then the Government will make a decision on who's going. That's an option between myself and the Governor-General and other senior representatives from New Zealand. But in the event the decision is made that I would go then I would just change my personal travel."