Baragwanath tipped for NZ First

Aucklander Susan Baragwanath is believed to be one of New Zealand First's top new candidates, although the list is still officially a secret.

Former Cook Islands Prime Minister Joe Williams - an Auckland doctor - is also set to be a candidate, probably standing in Maungakiekie.

The party typically releases its list and the names of its new candidates just before the election.

Dr Williams was unwilling to speak about his candidacy at the NZ First campaign launch yesterday before any official announcement.

Ms Baragwanath, who is overseas, is well known for her work encouraging teenage mothers to further their education.

She established He Huarahi Tamariki in Porirua in the 1990s, the first campus of its type to cater for teen mothers.

Married to High Court judge David Baragwanath, she is tipped to win a spot above some sitting MPs in the party, probably the only new candidate who will outrank any present MPs.

She will stand in Auckland Central.