National Party Kelston candidate selected

New National Party list MP Claudette Hauiti. Photo / New Zealand Herald / Mark Mitchell

List MP Claudette Hauiti has been selected as the National Party candidate for Kelston.

Ms Hauiti was elected to Parliament in May last year, following Aaron Gilmore's resignation.

The Kelston electorate is a new seat in this years General Election, and National regional chairman Andrew Hunt said the party was "determined to run a strong campaign there".

"Claudette quickly proved herself to be an energetic MP when she entered Parliament last year. I'm confident she'll use her experience to be a strong voice for the local communities in another strong, stable National-led Government," he said.

Ms Hauiti said it was a privilege to be chosen.

"The people of Kelston deserve a representative who understands their needs. I'll be working hard to be that voice in National at this election so we can keep working for Kelston families."

Ms Hauiti stood in the Mangere electorate during the 2011 general election representing National, losing to Labour's Su'a William Sio.

She is based in Auckland, where she lives with her partner Nadine Mau and their three children, but has vowed to move into the Kelston area if elected.

Before entering politics, Ms Hauiti worked in broadcasting, and as a successful businesswoman. She held several high-profile roles, including deputy chairwoman at Auckland's Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).