2 May 2018

Police quash Clarke Gayford rumours

11:45 am on 2 May 2018

Police have taken the unusual step of saying the Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's partner Clarke Gayford has not been investigated or charged with anything, after widespread rumours.

Jacinda Ardern and Clarke Gayford at their first media appearance after the announcement of the Prime Minister's pregnancy.

Jacinda Ardern and Clarke Gayford at their first media appearance after the announcement of the Prime Minister's pregnancy. Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook

Police said Mr Gayford has not been the subject of a police inquiry, nor has he been charged in relation to any matter.

The statement is a response to rumours circulated online and in political circles about Mr Gayford for some weeks.

A number of anonymous Twitter accounts have repeatedly tweeted the rumours.

In a letter to media, Kensington Swan lawyer Linda Clark said Mr Gayford denied the rumours and said they were untrue.

While police generally do not respond to enquiries about whether certain individuals are under police investigation, they have decided to make a specific statement on this occasion.

The Prime Minister's office has issued a one line statement: "I won't comment on dirty politics. It's just not what I'm here for."

National Party leader Simon Bridges said as leader he had repeatedly made his expectations very clear that National MPs would not be involved in peddling rumours or innuendo.

"It is my expectation that they will be conscious of their dealings with media, and ensure they are above reproach."

A Green party spokesperson said the party "doesn't comment on untrue rumours".