New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has admitted he misread the hair-pulling incident that made the international news last week. The prime minister will be back in Parliament within the week where he is expected to answer questions about the “ponytail-gate” involving his repeated pulling of a waitress’ ponytail.

Mr Key has confirmed he is paying for his legal fees. The prime minister said he did not expect to face charges for the incident but he had sought legal advice after serial litigant Graham McCready filed a complaint.

Mr Key said he had apologised to Amanda Bailey for pulling her hair over several months during the times he visited the café near his home in Parnell, reports Radio NZ. He added in an interview with Morning Repor that he should have “read” the situation better.

“Clearly I’ve misread the situation. I can absolutely assure people it was, it was really meant in… in good humour and nothing else,” said Mr Key. The prime minister remarked that “every person on the planet” would think he should have read the incident better. He reiterated that he had apologised sincerely for it and explained there was a “very good-natured environment” during the hair-pulling.

He said he has to accept that part of his strengths is also part of his weaknesses. Mr Key claimed he is the first to accept his behaviour had to change. He denied allegations that the ponytail-pulling was a sexist act. Mr Key remarked he could have just as easily pulled the hair of a man. In a separate interview last week, he had admitted that he shouldn't have done the things he has done, reports Stuff.

When asked if his behaviour had caused embarrassment to New Zealand, he remarked that he had hoped not. Last week, deputy Prime Minister Bill English had no choice but to face Parliament to answer questions about Mr Key and his hair pulling.

Mr Key had ruled out making a formal apology to his party. He said there was no need for it and the national party has to focus on other issues. He added that the budget is coming up. He believes the party will not find an apology necessary.

(To report problems or leave feedback on this article, contact: r.su@ibtimes.com.au)

RELATED STORIES