Annette King has announced she is stepping down as Labour Party deputy leader and will be retiring from politics at the end of this Parliamentary term.

The Rongotai MP and Labour Health Spokesperson says she's been considering her position for some time and after discussing the matter with colleagues feels now 'is the right time to pass the baton”.

'After some reflection, I have decided to step down from the Deputy Leader's position in the Labour Party.

'It's been the privilege of my life to have served the party for more than 30 years and to have worked for the people of Rongotai for 24 years.”

So who would Annette like to see take up the deputy leader position?

'Jacinda Ardern has my full support to be Labour's new Deputy Leader. I have watched her political career blossom since she became an MP in 2008 and mentored her when she needed help. After her emphatic victory in Mt Albert, she's well and truly ready to step up.”

Annette says the decision to step down is hers, adding she has always acted in the best interests of the party.

At the forefront of her mind is ensuring Labour is in the best possible position to change the Government in September, she says.

'All my energies will still be focused on changing this Government. It's the only way to fix the housing crisis, provide the health care families need and the education parents deserve for their children.”

Labour MPs will now elect a new Deputy Leader at the party's caucus meeting next Tuesday.

Labour Leader Andrew Little says Annette has been a wonderful deputy and has tirelessly supported him since he became leader.

'I've really appreciated her wise advice, humour and huge experience. She's also been an excellent Health Spokesperson. While I wanted her to stay in that role, I accept her reasons for wanting to retire.

'She has been an outstanding servant of the Labour Party and worked hard for a better and fairer New Zealand. She has made a huge contribution in government, opposition and in Rongotai.”

At next Tuesday's caucus Andrew confirms he will be nominating Jacinda Ardern for the position of deputy leader.

'She has performed extremely well as a list MP and her resounding win in the Mt Albert by-election is further proof that she has what it takes to be my deputy.”

Labour Leader Andrew Little confirms he will be nominating Mt Albert MP Jacinda Ardern for the deputy leader position. Photo: Labour