The shock resignation of John Key as Prime Minister has been met with surprise – and even denial – by some locals.

The Prime Minister today announced that he will resign on December 12.

He expects the National Party caucus will hold a special meeting on December 12 to select a new leader, after which he will travel to Government House to resign as Prime Minister.

'It has been an enormous privilege to be Prime Minister of New Zealand, and these last eight years have been an incredible experience. Throughout these years I have given everything I could to this job that I cherish, and this country that I love,” says John.

'Bronagh has made a significant sacrifice during my time in politics, and now is the right time for me to take a step back in my career and spend more time at home.'

In making his decision to resign, John reflected on the upcoming election campaign and the inevitable question as to whether he would serve a further three-year term as Prime Minister if National was successful at the election.

'I do not believe that if I was asked to commit to serving out a full fourth term I could look the public in the eye and say yes.

'And more than anything else in my time here, I have tried to be straight and true with New Zealanders.”

He believes National can win next year's election without him at the helm.

Deputy Prime Minister Bill English – who may end up taking the top job – believes John Key's intelligence, optimism and integrity as leader of the National Party and Prime Minister of New Zealand means he will be judged by history as one of New Zealand's greatest leaders.

Most people have expressed surprise and disbelief at the news. One gentleman interviewed by SunLive flat out refused to believe it, and could only give his opinion as a hypothetical.

Local Reaction: What do you think of John Key's resignation as Prime Minister?

Malcolm George:

'I'm sad He's been a good prime minister. Obviously by stepping down he's giving the next guy a chance to get ready for the 2017 election.”

Liane Crawford:

'Very surprised. A bit disappointing, though, as I thought he would finish his term. But I suppose family comes first.”

Geoff Rollerson:

'Good on him, I suppose. He's got plenty of money – he's a millionaire – so he doesn't need the job. In some ways I'm sad, though, because I don't think Labour's going to do any good.”

Michael Ford:

'I don't really care, it just means the next person in the line moves up. It might affect the 2017 election, as John key's a charismatic guy, and Labour doesn't really have anyone to match him.”

Bianca Lawton:

'It's a bit of surprise. But it's not like he's doing it for the money. I totally get he wants to spend time with his family.”