High-praise for Maureen Pugh from the National Party's leader

The list MP was once slammed by ex-leader Simon Bridges who in a leaked phone-call described her as being "useless".

But Ms Pugh, who is standing for the West Coast-Tasman seat, has been bumped to number 19 on National's candidate list.

Leader Judith Collins says Ms Pugh is a truly outstanding local member.

Ms Collins says Ms Pugh has shown incredible loyal to the party, and has deep connections within the West Coast-Tasman electorate.