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With National riding high in the polls, leader Don Brash has given the strongest hint yet that his party could do a deal with New Zealand First leader Winston Peters to form a government.
But Brash is unhappy Peters will not reveal who he favours for a coalition.
Political leaders are making the most of the parliamentary break to press some flesh and court the all-important party vote just a couple of months out from the election.
"It's the list or party vote that determines whether we get into parliament or not," says Brash.
And he is worried New Zealanders may be putting too much of that vote in the hands of Peters.
"A vote for New Zealand First is like tossing a coin, you have no idea whether you're getting a continuation of Helen Clark in government or whether you will get a National-led government, because Winston won't tell you," Brash says.
National has edged slightly ahead of Labour in the polls, but neither party has enough votes to rule alone. They would need at least one other partner and that is looking increasingly likely to be Peters.
"...we'll deal with whoever the electorate delivers to us," says Brash.
Prime Minister Helen Clark says Labour has had a good working relationship with Peters on some issues such as the controversial seabed and foreshore law and on the super fund.
But she has said she would prefer other options.
"Our first preference of course is with the parties that have given us good support - the Greens, United Future, Jim Anderton's party," Clark says.
"If we're in a position to form a government again, on the same basis we've had before, we'll be very happy."
Peters says he will not comment on what either leader is saying, but in recent speeches he has indicated New Zealand First will wait until election night before making any decision about coalition talks - a delay likely to fuel frustration from potential suitors.
