Harris fourth candidate in byelection

STEPPING UP: Rob Harris would like to represent a commuter's point of view. PHOTO / FILE

A fourth candidate has declared his intention to stand in the Carterton byelection.

Rob Harris, former chairman of the Carterton Community Trust and a member on the board of the Carterton Community Christmas Dinner, has confirmed he will be standing for the seat left vacant by John Booth's promotion to mayor.

Mr Harris was a candidate in the 2013 election, placing behind Brian Poulsen and ahead of Reverend Jenny Chalmers.

So far Mr Harris will be running against Ms Chalmers, Tracey O'Callaghan and Jacqui Malcolm, who have announced their intention to stand in the by-election.

Mr Harris, who works as a contractor for the government in the field of ministerial correspondence, moved to Carterton 15 years ago.

He said he would like to represent a commuter's point of view.

"My strength and the voice I would bring to the council table is the voice of the commuter. I think we'd have a positive effect on Carterton as we earn city salaries but spend them in Carterton.

"It's a fresh voice I'd bring around the table."

If elected, one of his priorities would be the rail service, Mr Harris said.

"I will lead the charge to ensure our commuter service is electrified. The investment cycle in our service is now grossly out-of-sync ... we must ensure that the electrification of our service is never off the table."

His experience in the public sector would be an asset to the council.

"I've worked in the government sector for about 15 years. I've a good idea of how government departments work. I have that close understanding of the way things are decided in government."

Nominations for the byelection close on December 22.