Sir John Key says MP Nikki Kaye was in a positive head space before her death over the weekend

Kaye was the first National MP to win Auckland Central in 2008, and held the seat until 2020.

She held several ministerial portfolios - including Education - and was a National deputy leader in Opposition.

Former Prime Minister Key says he had a long call with Kaye in hospital, three weeks ago.

He says Kaye told him she was a spiritual person and at peace with what was happening.

Key says he told Kaye it's the life you get out of the years, not the years you get out of life - and she packed an awful lot in 44-years.