In the final televised debate between the leaders of the two major parties, National leader John Key has given more ground to the Maori Party as he seeks to build a post-election coalition.
Mr Key said he would not object to appointing a Maori Party MP as Minister of Maori Affairs outside Cabinet.
Labour Party leader Helen Clark made no promises, saying such issues are up for negotiation after the election, but did not rule out offering the Maori Affairs portfolio to the Maori Party.
She said she would be reluctant to have that portfolio held outside Cabinet.
During the debate on TV One on Wednesday 5 November, the leaders outlined their positions on issues including climate change, coalition negotiations and how they would respond to the global financial crisis.
Miss Clark said it is important not to lose sight of issues such as climate change because of current economic conditions.
Mr Key said New Zealand's response to climate change needs to be balanced against the need for economic growth, and environmental issues would be further down National's list of priorities than the economy.
Miss Clark appealed for voters to stick with strong and proven leadership, while John Key urged the public to vote for change.
