As National leader Bill English released his party's law and order policy yesterday, his Wairarapa candidate withdrew because his son was convicted of burglary.
Koro Mullins, a shearing contractor of Dannevirke, advised the party that "family circumstances" meant he could no longer contest the seat.
Mr Mullins confirmed last nightthat it was because of his 17-year-old son, Punga.
But he insisted National had not put pressure on him to withdraw and had been very supportive.
"Our son, bless his soul, has been in a wee bit of trouble," he said.
"He needs me more than the National Party at this stage.
"I have slipped up as a parent in the last few months - and I see this young guy kicking stones when he should be kicking balls around with me."
In three years, if everything was going well he would seek reselection.
