A wave of disbelief was felt across the world today after John Key's out-of-the-blue resignation. Here are the top 10 reactions to the soon to be former PM's shock announcement.
Key's resignation was widely picked up by international media including The Guardian, CNN and BBC who published the news on their home pages.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull texted Key, who he described on Twitter as a "great friend", from across the ditch: "Say it ain't so, bro". He later acknowledged Key on Twitter as an "inspiring world leader".
The PM's son and DJ, Max Key, posted a tribute to his Dad on Facebook and Instagram, along with a family snap.
Helen Clark offered her support for the man who took her job in 2008 on Twitter, wishing him all the best.
Corrections and Police Minister Judith Collins put a cat among the pigeons when she told Newshub she had not decided if she would go for the top job.
"I'm thinking about it. I'm not really prepared to go any further".
Valerie Adams volunteered herself for the role of PM on Twitter.
Comedian Rhys Darby also joked about taking over as Prime Minister, given Flight of The Concords star Jemaine Clement and director Taika Waititi join him in his Cabinet.
Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott shared a rather confusing message on Twitter.
A joke Facebook event "John Key Resignation Piss Up" has been set up, promising Winston Peters as DJ and Bill English "flaming some snags" on the barbie. Almost 3000 people have expressed interest in the party.
The announcement was dubbed #Jexit on social media this afternoon.