Talk about gone by lunchtime!
The curse of the National Party leaders has struck again.

National Party leader Don Brash announced this afternoon that he will stepdown from leadership on Monday.
A new leader will be elected at a special caucus meeting on the same day.
Dr Brash denied allegations that his resignation was due to pressure from his caucus and said he had come to the conclusion himself.
He said the decision has come after months of media speculation.
Dr Brash added that his decision was not due to the imminent release of Nicky Hager's book, The Hollow Men.
He said he came to an arrangement with his lawyers, under which the book can be released - probably Friday morning.

Whew! The media are gonna have a circus with this one!! Especially considering National's recent track record with leaders - ever since Jenny Shipley took over from Bolger.