Candidate switches from National to Act

A Motueka man who failed to gain selection as National's West Coast Tasman candidate in this year's election will now represent Act.

Kevin Gill, a health and safety consultant, said he did not want to waste the training he had received from National.

"It's like training to play rugby, learning the rules, getting fit but as the game approaches, changing jersey. It's still rugby."

National selected Moana businessman Chris Auchinvole over Mr Gill.

Christian Heritage has also announced that its new deputy leader, Derek Blight of Hokitika, will stand in the electorate.

The two men will be trying to oust incumbent Labour MP Damien O'Connor, who will be seeking a fifth term in Parliament.

Mr Gill, who also works as a co-ordinator for the New Zealand Father and Child Society, said West Coast had not had a true representative from the electorate in recent years because Mr O'Connor spent so much time in Wellington.

"We need someone who actually has a voice for the area rather than just a token value."

- NZPA