The Finance Minister's backing away from suggestions she's gearing up to sell KiwiBank

But Nicola Willis says the Government will do more to strengthen the State-Owned bank.

A Ministerial letter of expectation to Kiwibank's top-brass sparked speculation of a sale.

It outlined an expectation the board should consider new ways to support growth.

Today, Willis all but ruled out an outright sale. She says she wants to see a stronger KiwiBank -- which continues to flourish.

Willis says the Commerce Commission's recommended if it's stronger, it can better take on the Australian bank and she wants a better deal for KiwiBank users.