Former Federated Farmers chief eyes Act candidacy

Former Federated Farmers president Don Nicholson is gearing up for an Act campaign. Photo / File

Former Federated Farmers president and climate change sceptic Don Nicolson appears likely to be a high-ranked candidate for the Act Party this election.

The Herald understands that Mr Nicolson, who has previously made no secret of his political ambitions, has applied to join the party.

He would join Cathy Odgers, the corporate lawyer and author of the blog Cactus Kate, as a new face in the party.

In a recent interview, Mr Nicolson described his political views as "where the National Party used to be", which is the same description that Act leader Don Brash has used for the Act Party.

Dr Brash said Mr Nicolson would make an excellent candidate.

"If we were to secure Don Nicolson as a candidate for the Act Party, I would be over the moon. He is a person of tremendous ability, and I respect him greatly.

"He has a great deal to offer the Act Party ... The board decides on the list ranking, and I am simply one member of the board."

Parliamentary party leader John Boscawen and party president Chris Simmons both agreed Mr Nicolson would make an excellent match with the party, given Mr Nicolson's opposition to the Emissions Trading Scheme and his support for free markets.

"He'll add a lot of value to the political landscape, and I certainly hope that will be through the Act Party," said Mr Simmons.

Yesterday Mr Nicolson said he had submitted an application to join a political party last week, but would not say which one.

The party board will approve Mr Nicolson's membership at its next meeting at the end of the month, when it is also likely to finalise the party's list.

Current MPs Heather Roy and Sir Roger Douglas will both retire at the end of the parliamentary term. Dunedin-based MP Hilary Calvert is understood to be keen to stand again.