Pierce considering tilt at national politics

UNDER CONSIDERATION: Hastings district councillor Adrienne Pierce is contemplating offering her services to the Tukituki electorate following MP Craig Foss' departure.

Hastings mayor Lawrence Yule says he is still weighing up whether or not to contend the Tukituki National Party electorate seat following current MP Craig Foss' decision not to run in the 2017 election.

This was despite his assurances when campaigning for mayor this year that he would remain in the role for the full term.

Mr Foss' resignation had changed that, he said.

"At that stage I had thought about national politics after the end of this term - I was never going to challenge Craig for that position."

He said people had been asking him about his thoughts when he was running for mayor.
"I looked at the political scene and everyone said Craig would stand again - it was a huge shock he did what he did.

"Now I need to stand back and think about what this means and what I want to do."

Hastings councillor Adrienne Pierce, however, was more forthcoming when asked whether she would consider standing, yesterday confirming she was considering the role.

"Craig has done such a great job for Tukituki over his 12 years of service - it's a big thing and there's a lot to consider - my hubby and I are talking."

She said she was also talking to her supporters and expected there would be a lot of interest in the position.

"People have to decide what is the reason they would stand in Tukituki - you have to be really organised in your life, it's a huge job."

Another name to come up this week was Stewart Group executive director and chief executive Nick Stewart who laughed when asked about the rumours that he may put himself forward, confirming it was not under his radar.

"Someone asked me that last week, I don't know where it came from but I hope they get some good candidates and I am sure it will be a good contest."

Potential candidates would have some time to consider their options as nominations would not be called for until early in the New Year, said Tukituki National Party chair Kevin Trerise.

After that a pre-selection process would get underway before party members voted on selected candidates.

"I'm sure there will be more than one candidate - it's a good safe National seat under Craig's stewardship - I am sure that will continue and it will be sought after by a lot of people."