Deputy Mayor Tania McInnes declares bid for Far North mayoralty

Far North Deputy Mayor Tania McInnes has announced her intention to run for the district's top elected position. Photo / Supplied

Far North Deputy Mayor Tania McInnes is the latest to throw her hat in the ring for the mayoralty in the local elections coming up later this year.

McInnes, a two-term councillor and Deputy Mayor, made her announcement via social media.

She joins Waipapa motoring journalist Peter Gill, who announced his intention to contest the mayoralty last month. Gill was current Mayor John Carter's only challenger in the 2016 election.

As well as what will be six years as Deputy Mayor, McInnes said her experience included four years working within local government and ongoing involvement in community development projects. She was also one of the founders of Focus Paihia.

''I know what needs to be done to elevate our council and our district ... My drive to be your mayor is motivated by the desire to influence, advocate, support and empower, so that we might shine like we should. Be known as innovators, trail blazers, game changers.''

Carter has previously told the Advocate he would announce his intentions closer to the election. Councillor Dave Hookway, of Waipapa, is expected to join the race but has not made an official announcement.

Last month councillor John Vujcich, of Kaikohe, said he had been asked to stand but had yet to decide.

Councillor Ann Court, of Waipapa, and former Green MP David Clendon, from Kerikeri, have ruled themselves out of the mayoral race.