Wellington, June 10 NZPA - Prime ministers, past and present, come through their credit card checks unscathed.

Nearly all of former prime minister Helen Clark's accounts from 2003 to 2008 involved overseas trips and she didn't spend anything on herself.

Meals were modest, although the legendary communicator racked up some impressive hotel phone bills.

At home she did use her card for one personal item -- $19.95 for a pair of gumboots when she visited the flooded Bay of Plenty.

Prime Minister John Key was also very careful with his credit card. The records show he favours All Black jerseys as gifts when he goes overseas and five were bought for $810.

When Prince William visited he was given Buzzy Bee cufflinks worth $99 and a $272 Swanndri.

One member of Mr Key's staff last year reported a stolen Visa card and $850 was spent on it before it was cancelled. The BNZ refunded the money.

Miss Clark's office was frequently ticked off by Ministerial Services for filing late statements and the habit continued when Mr Key took over. He seems to have it under control now and there haven't been any reminders so far this year.