Government minister Maurice Williamson has ruled himself out of the Auckland mayoralty race this year.
The National Party MP for Pakuranga is refusing to give reasons for his decision, and won't deny that he might run for Auckland's top job in the future.
Maurice Williamson. Photo: RNZ
Mr Williamson says many groups and individuals approached him about standing for the mayoralty.
However he says after much thought and analysis, including looking at personal, political, funding and other circumstances, he decided against it.
Mr Williamson says he remains focused on his electorate and ministerial duties and is sorry if his supporters are disappointed by his decision.
Incumbent Len Brown will stand again, though he hasn't yet formally announced he will do so.
The other main candidates so far are veteran activist John Minto and restaurateur John Palino.
A survey by UMR earlier in May showed support for the encumbent Len Brown at 43%, Mr Williamson on 27% and the balance unsure or supporting neither. The survey of 241 people had a marging of error of 6%.
