Howick Local Board Chair Michael Williams will not be seeking the National Party Nomination for the Botany Electorate.

“When I was previously asked by the media whether I would seek nomination I stated that I had no comment to make at that time. At that stage I think only one person had thrown their hat in the ring.

If no suitable candidate had come forward, I might well have considered running, but the fact is that a number of very capable people have put their names forward.

They include Daniel Newman, a centre-right colleague of mine on the Manukau City Council who has supported our community and has a reputation for making things happen; Maggie Barrie, a very well known and credible media personality and local man Darren Gedge who has worked hard for the party and has a great deal of integrity.

I have been elected to do a job and that job is to be Chairman of the Howick Local Board, incorporating Pakuranga and Botany. I intend to work very hard in this role for the next three years and possibly longer. There is a great deal yet to be accomplished.”

ENDS