Peters may not stand if Tauranga poll called

Bob Clarkson

Speculation is growing within New Zealand First that leader and Foreign Minister Winston Peters would not stand in a Tauranga byelection that would be called if he wins his court challenge against National MP Bob Clarkson.

Mr Clarkson tipped out Mr Peters, who had held the seat since 1984, but Mr Peters claims Mr Clarkson spent well over the $20,000 limit.

The decision is expected before Christmas.

If a majority of the three judges agree, the election result will be deemed void and a byelection called in which Mr Clarkson would be barred from standing.

List MP Ron Mark is said to be interested in standing if a vacancy occurs. Colleague Brian Donnelly would be another possibility. The next person on New Zealand First's list, Susan Baragwanath, said she had given no thought to the matter.

Fuelling speculation that Mr Peters would not stand in Tauranga is the news that New Zealand First is deploying some of its funding for its Tauranga office, shared between Mr Peters and deputy leader Peter Brown, to establish an office in Auckland.

A spokesman for Mr Peters said it was incorrect to say that Mr Peters was closing his office to relocate to Auckland.