New Zealand First has poached MPs from both of our two biggest parties

Former National MP Harate Hipango has joined NZ First but says she hasn't decided whether she'll return to politics.

Former Labour Party cabinet minister Stuart Nash has given a speech at New Zealand First's annual conference.

Mr Nash says there's a process to becoming a candidate for the party and he's not sure if he will be approached for a position.

He says New Zealanders need to follow the social contract and work together.

He says we need to have each other's backs not stab each other's backs.