Claims by New Zealand Herald journalist Adam Bennett with respect to former MP Ron Mark's possible nomination for New Zealand First in the seat of Wairarapa are false, says New Zealand First Leader Rt Hon Winston Peters.

'New Zealand First has a very thorough candidate selection process and all potential candidates are selected by the board.

'As of this morning the New Zealand First Board advises that no paperwork has been received by Mr Mark regarding his nomination.

'As every New Zealand First MP and candidate knows we will not be talking to any political party in the lead up to this election.

'This is the second time the New Zealand Herald has run this angle, the last time being 2005, it was a blatant lie then and it a blatant lie now.

'If the New Zealand Herald wants to wade in to tip the election to their favoured outcome, it should stand aside, set up a party and be honest with its intentions, instead of engaging in deceitful sniping and gutter journalism."

Source: New Zealand First.