National open to NZ First coalition, only if need be

National leader Chris Luxon says he'll call New Zealand First's Winston Peters if needed to govern. (Ben McKay/AAP PHOTOS)

After months of prevarication, National leader Chris Luxon has admitted he will pursue a coalition with Winston Peters' New Zealand First after the October 14 election - but only as a last resort.

Mr Luxon has even left open the prospect of a sensational return for Mr Peters as deputy prime minister in declaring himself open to a deal with the wily 78-year-old.