He said he would like to represent a commuter's point of view.
"My strength and the voice I would bring to the council table is the voice of the commuter. I think we'd have a positive effect on Carterton as we earn city salaries but spend them in Carterton.
"It's a fresh voice I'd bring around the table."
If elected, one of his priorities would be the rail service, Mr Harris said.
"I will lead the charge to ensure our commuter service is electrified. The investment cycle in our service is now grossly out-of-sync ... we must ensure that the electrification of our service is never off the table."
His experience in the public sector would be an asset to the council.
"I've worked in the government sector for about 15 years. I've a good idea of how government departments work. I have that close understanding of the way things are decided in government."
Nominations for the byelection close on December 22.