National's former deputy leader Nikki Kaye dropped the F-Bomb during her final speech on Thursday as she summed up her 12-year tenure in Parliament.
Kaye kick started her career in politics in the early 2000s with the Young Nationals, working as a researcher for Bill English in the Leader of the Opposition office.
After spending time abroad she returned to New Zealand in 2007 to contest for Auckland Central for the National Party. A seat she would hold for four terms.
During her speech on Thursday she recounted her political highs including winning the seat which was "one of the best moments of my life".
She also mentioned the work she did helping rough sleepers and in marine protection in the Hauraki Gulf.
But Kaye also pointed out one of her hardest moments - when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016.
"As I've said before my world broke. I tried to resign and the only reason I was able to become Minister of Education was because [Prime Minister] John Key, as I cried my eyes out, said 'you are not f***ing going anywhere'."
Key was in the room when Kaye made the comment, prompting laughter in the House.
After taking leave from Parliament and ministerial duties for treatment, Kaye returned in early 2017.
In her speech, Kaye also thanked Labour's Chris Hipkins for their work in the Education sector, which was one of her main passions in politics.
Hipkins is currently the Education Minister while Kaye held the role in 2017.
"We do not agree with all of the proposals but I acknowledge Minister Hipkins for trying to collaborate and compromise to get a better result," Kaye said.
"It was very touching on the morning that it was reported that I was going to retire, that you told me not to do it. I think you learn in those moments that you can fight on policy and ideas but form friendships across the house. Thank you for what you do Minister."
She also made a special mention of former National leader Todd Muller, under whom Kaye was deputy, who resigned due to health reasons.
Soon after Kaye announced her intention not to contest the upcoming election.
In her final speech she nodded to her future - "I may be off to be a hippie for a while"- but thanked everyone for her time in politics.
"I have been proud to have been a public servant of New Zealand. I love our country and I hope to continue to contribute more in the future. Haere ra."
