KEY POINTS:
Willie Jackson says he is "seriously considering" adding his name to the list of four runners in the Manukau mayoralty race.
The Maori broadcaster, talkback host and former union official and MP said last night he had been asked to stand by a variety of groups and individuals.
"It's been quite flattering and humbling," said the Mangere Bridge resident. "I'm seriously considering it but I've a family to consider and I've a lot of responsibilities."
His work commitments include being chief executive of Urban Maori Authority Broadcasting, which is responsible for Radio Waatea and George FM.
He is host of TV One's Eye to Eye and for a year has also been co-host with another former MP, John Tamihere, on Radio Live's afternoon show.
Mr Jackson is chairman of the National Urban Maori Authority which embraces the work of seven urban authorities, including the Manukau one, which is headed by his mother June. As an MP from 1995 to 2003, he was leader of the Mana Motuhake Party and deputy leader of the Alliance. He was also a union official for 17 years.
Interest in the Manukau mayoralty has become intense with the pending retirement of eight-term Mayor Sir Barry Curtis. So far, the declared contenders are Arthur Anae, Len Brown, Craig Little and Dick Quax. Nominations close at noon on August 24.
