Editorial: Mayoral contest set to attract interest

Mark Dawson, Editor of Wanganui Chronicle

A keen sailor, Helen Craig is setting out on uncharted waters as she seeks to be Whanganui's next mayor.

The announcement of her candidacy yesterday was not unexpected - some might even have regarded it as "Whanganui's worst-kept secret".

Despite being a newbie on council, she has made herself an extremely visible and active local representative, whether it be defending trees or bringing the caustic "H" debate back to the council table - and, indeed, to eventual resolution.

In many of her efforts one got a sense of a greater ambition, and she will make a strong candidate come the October local body elections.

To claim the chain of office she will have to beat another strong candidate in deputy mayor Hamish McDouall, the highest-polling candidate at the 2013 poll with 10,689 votes (Ms Craig mustered 6674).

Replacing a passionate and pro-active mayor like Annette Main, who has done much to turn Whanganui's image - and self-esteem - around, will be a tough task. But we can at least feel comforted that we have two very able people duking it out.

And, of course, the rumour mill suggests others will throw their hats into the ring.

If nothing else, a well-populated election should stimulate voter interest and see a good turnout at the ballot box.

One concern is that, with Mr McDouall a longstanding Labour candidate, and Ms Craig closely allied to the National Party, we will see a contest hued in party political colours.

Mr McDouall has been quick to point out that national politics have no place when candidates step up to represent the best interests of our district and its people, and it is likely that Ms Craig will echo that view.

However, it would be naive not to think there will be some division of votes along party lines.

The Labour faithful will be inclined to back their man; and National supporters their woman.

So, hopefully, the undecideds, don't-knows and swing voters will pay close attention to what could be a fascinating campaign.