The man expected to be New Zealand's next deputy Prime Minister is "quietly confident" National will have enough support to form the next Government.
Bill English, who comfortably reclaimed his Clutha-Southland seat, arrived at the Scenic Circle Croydon Hotel in Gore at 10pm, to a loud and enthusiastic welcome from a crowd of more than 100 supporters.
In an interview with the Otago Daily Times, he said it was still too early to say National would lead the next Government but admitted Labour would "struggle" to get enough support to form a coalition.
I'm pretty comfortable where we are at but I won't be happy until all the votes are counted."
National would be talking to "a range of parties" in the coming days but a smiling Mr Engolish seemed to have an aura of confidence around him.
He arrived at the venue with wife Mary and some of their children.
After a live television interview went to air, the crowd gave him rousing applause.
