If newly appointed Rugby World Cup 2011 volunteer ambassador Michael Jones decides to enter politics it will be a long way off, he says.
The former All Black and Prime Minister John Key were pressed on the issue yesterday as they launched the Rugby World Cup 2011 volunteer programme in Lower Hutt.
Jones was approached by the National Party before the 2008 election about getting into politics.
He said he would consider it if he thought he could contribute, but indicated a young family could make things difficult.
Questions were asked today about what could be read into his latest union with Mr Key and Rugby World Cup Minister Murray McCully.
"There's no connection at all," he said.
"I think in his capacity as minister of the rugby World Cup, Minister McCully had approached me six weeks ago just to pick up on this role.
"I think he saw it as a good fit for me...I love the values around volunteering."
Jones said he would never rule out the prospect of running for the National Party, as it wouldn't be a good look if he had to go back on his word.
"That might be in 10, 20 -- maybe even 30 years if I live that long -- but it's not on my radar right now, it's not a priority."
He said his wife had another baby due soon and he was heavily involved in community work. Now was not the right time to consider politics.
Mr Key said: "It's no secret we would love him to run for National, and I think in the end that's a decision for him and his family.
"I know he considered it carefully in 2008, and while he ruled it out at that point I don't think he's ruled it out for the future..."