Labour MP Chris Hipkins called Opposition leader Simon Bridges a "chauvinistic pig" after Mr Bridges implied the Prime Minister is told what to say during Question Time.

Mr Bridges said Finance Minister Grant Robertson is a "ventriloquist", implying he tells Jacinda Ardern how to answer questions.

Mr Bridges was told to withdraw his comment and apologise, which he did - but not without comment from Mr Hipkins, who was himself told to withdraw his comment and apologise.

"I apologise for calling the Leader of the Opposition a chauvinistic pig," Mr Hipkins said.