John Banks: The mellowed, transmogrified Auckland mayor wants the job and is seen as the best option by many.
CHANCES: The front runner
Len Brown: The well-liked and passionate Manukau City mayor's recent heart problems may count against his getting such a stressful job.
CHANCES: Good to very good
Bob Harvey: The six-term mayor of Waitakere believes the mayoral job is not about hubris or ego but leadership and the ability to see the bigger picture. But he might need to give a younger person a chance.
CHANCES: Average to good
Mike Lee: The chairman of the Auckland Regional Council said he was reluctant to see central government social responsibilities off-loaded on to a new city region when getting there was tough and new infrastructure was greatly needed.
CHANCES: Good
Andrew Williams: The North Shore mayor and critic of the super city. Has eccentric, sometimes combative style and is highly unlikely to stand.
CHANCES: Poor
Judith Tizard: The former Labour MP lost one of Auckland's "safe" seats to National last year. Not seen as the future of Auckland.
CHANCES: Poor
Paul Holmes: The sentimental vote. The nation's conscience for years could stand a chance if Aucklanders really miss hearing him on the radio each morning.
CHANCES: Average
Peter Leitch: Has "dylexia" as he calls it but is a self-made millionaire and tirelessly works for charity. Not a serious contender.
CHANCES: Poor to average
Blair Strang: Once Rangi from Shortland Street, the qualified lawyer now sees himself as a, ahem, serious mayoral candidate.
CHANCES: DOA
