Although their party policies differ, Harete Hipango standing for National, Steph Lewis for Labour and Nicola Patrick for the Greens are in agreement about their main concerns.
Housing, health, education and growth for Whanganui are shared concerns for the three main party political candidates in the region.
The three candidates presented their views and answered questions at Whanganui's first 2017 candidates' forum hosted by the National Council of Women on Thursday night.
Whanganui president for the National Council of Women Jenny Saywood said it was exciting to host a forum where "three strong women candidates are representing major parties in Whanganui".
The forum at St Paul's Community Centre hall was chaired by Whanganui Women's Network manager Carla Donson who introduced the candidates and used her "trusty bell from the Ladies' Rest" to remind candidates when their speaking time was running out.
The speaking order was decided by ballot and 28-year-old lawyer Ms Lewis was first.
She referred to the whakatauki or proverb about the flax bush that refers to he tāngata, or the people being the most important part of a community.
Ms Lewis said Labour's housing and health policies will improve prosperity in the region.
"Whanganui needs a strong and committed MP and I will be that person," she said.
Ms Hipango was up second and she spoke about her decision to take on a public role when she is a private person by nature.
"I have taken on a role passed on by my tipuna and I have a very strong loyalty to this community.
"I was born, raised and educated here and so were my three adult children."
Ms Hipango has Te Atihaunui a Paparangi, Ngati Apa and Nga Rauru whakapapa.
As a lawyer she has worked in the public and private sector in areas of family, mental health, youth justice, child welfare, criminal, Maori land and mediation law.
"My experience has made me very aware of the diverse needs of the community."
Ms Hipango said the needs of an ageing population are paramount.
"I believe the National Party is a responsible government and has a strong kaupapa on meeting those needs.
"As an MP I will advance and advocate for the social needs of this region."
Third speaker Ms Patrick has a journalism diploma and a science degree as well as an extensive CV which includes 10 years working for the Department of Conservation and is mother to two young sons.
She joined the Green Party four years ago and said she is driven by her personal values of fairness which are a good fit with the party's values.
"The Green Party values are ecological wisdom, social responsibility, appropriate decision making and non violence."
Ms Patrick said the restructuring of DoC by the current government has distressed her.
"It was a solid organisation that was functioning well.
"I want to see it restored and I want to see the Resource Management Act repaired."
Ms Patrick was asking for the party vote and said the Greens have a memorandum of understanding with Labour.
The candidates fielded pre-written questions from the National Council of Women and also questions from the floor.