Nikki Kaye has been confirmed as National's candidate in the Auckland Central electorate for next year's election.

The 36 year old took sick leave in September after being diagnosed with breast cancer, but says her treatment has gone well and she plans to resume full duties.

She was named as minister of youth and associate minister of education in Prime Minister Bill English's cabinet and is expected to take over from Hekia Parata as minister of education next May.

Ms Kaye said the last few months have been tough, but she's been able to get through it with the help of her friends, family and the National Party.

She said she has been overwhelmed by the support from the Auckland Central constituents.

Ms Kaye won Auckland Central for the National Party for the first time in New Zealand's history in 2008 and followed it up with wins in 2011 and 2014.

She saw off Labour's Jacinda Ardern in 2011. Ms Ardern stayed in parliament as a list MP and will contest the Mt Albert by-election for Labour.

- additional reporting from AAP