National leader John Key is the subject of mirth among some in the Beehive today after likening himself to United States presidential hopeful Barack Obama.

Political editor Barry Soper says Mr Key gave an interview to the influential Financial Times of London where he made the comparison. Mr Key is reported as saying he is a bit like Barack Obama, in that he is not institutionalised in Wellington.

The Times says he will be the most inexperienced Prime Minister in more than a century if he wins the election.

A bemused Finance Minister Michael Cullen said it is clear Mr Key did not expect his comments would come back to this country and they show he has a very high opinion of himself - which is laughable.