Banks confirmed as Epsom candidate

John Banks. Photo / Natalie Slade

Former Auckland Mayor John Banks was confirmed by the Act board this morning as Act's candidate for Epsom in the November election.

The announcement was made at a press conference this afternoon in Newmarket, Auckland.

Mr Banks was favoured by new leader Don Brash, who last month ousted former leader and sitting Epsom MP Rodney Hide in a very public coup.

Mr Banks is a former National Party MP and cabinet minister. He, like Dr Brash, only recently joined Act - on May 18.

Act's polling has improved since Dr Brash's leadership bid, with a recent poll showing the party would pass the 5 per cent threshold to get into Parliament.