In the heart of Bill English country, about 80 people have gathered at the Scenic Circle Croydon Lodge Hotel in Gore as of 9.15pm.
Most of the crowd are older and from the party faithful but there is a growing number of younger people there too.
Those spoken to are confident Clutha-Southland MP Bill English will not only retain his seat but become the country's next deputy Prime Minister.
Several media, both print and television, are based at the hotel waiting for Mr English to arrive.
He is expected by 10pm.
