The people have spoken: Richie McCaw for PM

Forget the official National Party leadership race - the country wants the man who led the country to Rugby World Cup victory to take charge.

In a poll conducted by the Herald Richie McCaw has come out the clear favourite to become the next Prime Minister amassing thousands more popular votes than his political counterparts.

The rank outsider, who is not eligible for next Monday's leadership race, has garnered a whopping 3646 votes to lead the country in a poll asking which high-profile Kiwi people wanted see become prime minister.

A snap poll has garnered more than 7300 votes. Double gold medallist Val Adams came second behind McCaw on 2245 votes, followed by decorated war hero Willie Apiata.

Posted James Whyte: "Lots of good leadership qualities in this group, id totes be a fan of Richie for president [sic].

Added Zoltan Szeman: "How about taking turns in every four months or so? At least nobody would be there enough time to make any serious damage yet they can represent NZ well internationally."

"If I had a say in the matter, Richie McCaw would get my vote!" posted Margie Smith.

McCaw's credentials include leading the All Blacks to victory in back-to-back Rugby World Cups. He has an honorary doctorate from Lincoln University. Rugby overtook earlier studies, which left him two papers shy of finishing his Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree. He is pursuing an aeronautical career, most recently helping in the Kaikoura quake relief effort.

He bowed out of his professional sporting career soon after holding the Webb Ellis trophy aloft for the second successive time last November.

In stark contrast a concurrent poll on the Herald Facebook page drew a smaller audience with a clear preference for current deputy Bill English to step up to the top job.

English drew 2209 votes followed by Judith Collins with 876 votes and Jonathan Coleman on 635 votes.

Posted Eric Neilson: "God anyone [except] Judith Collins she is like the female Duterte. I can only stand one Duterte in this world not two. Heck ask Richie McCaw if he wants to be interim Prime Minister until a new election is called."

Pamela Rutherfurd:"Bill has the most experienced sadly no one can replace John."

This week Prime Minister John Key announced he would be resigning on Monday and sparked a vote for new leader. He has publicly endorsed his deputy to take the reins.

The National Party caucus will gather in Wellington on Monday to vote for their new leader.