Compared to Helen Clark, who is very much at home at the Ratana Church celebrations after 14 years of attending, Key was a novice. She's connected. But Key's enthusiasm and desire to engage are welcomed. He's willing to take the risk of being filmedplaying volleyball with the locals. He doesn't drop the ball; it pays off - to the relief of his minders.
State-of-nation speech
Disappointing, with absence of policy detail and with mediocre delivery. But it further entrenched the perception he wants to be a centrist leader. National's so-called compassionate conservatism is cyclical but this was a particularly deep charge into Labour territory. It's immensely irritating to the Government, whose MPs are regular visitors to low-socio-economic neighbourhoods. They are amazed at his gall, but so far are on the back foot when it comes to retaliation. National's trial will be developing policy to match the rhetoric.
Gisborne caucus retreat
The smoothest gathering of National MPs for some years, with the words "discipline" and "unity" hanging in the air. Key manages the media stand-ups well. Murray McCully, ever present at Don Brash's, is absent. Key talks tough on suspended MP Brian Connell - the pariah from Rakaia - a reminder to colleagues of the price of breaking rank. Maori policy announcements rile the Maori Party, co-incidentally seeking a dinner with Helen Clark at the same time. Yet the decisions aren't a surprise.
Waitangi Day
Key is bracing himself for his visit to the unpredictable Te Tii Marae today, although it's been quieter there in the past two years, partly because of the Maori Party influence and because it's now bypassed by many important visitors. Key could face a reaction to the foreshore decision. Is known for being fairly unflappable, but will be out of his comfort zone.
Parliamentary year
Response to the Prime Minister's Statement will be his first big job in the House. Lacks some gravitas in the chamber and should be working on speech delivery. Is, however, more animated than his predecessor.
