Updated 4.37pm: Ron Mark isn't commenting on whether he made a bid for deputy leader of New Zealand First.

Rumours are rife that he tried to challenge Tracey Martin for the job.

Mr Mark will only confirm he isn't the new deputy.

"No I'm not the new deputy leader, and we don't discuss caucus matters."

Deputy leader Tracey Martin was earlier believed to be out of the role.

Party leader Winston Peters refused to confirm or deny.

"Look I just gave you an answer which is total if you follow it slowly. We do not discuss caucus business outside caucus."

MP Mahesh Bindra only answered that the holder of the deputy position was "confidential."

Winston Peters confirmed that the information was confidential, saying he was "restricted by the rule we've had for 22 long years."