Blumsky seeks third mayoral term

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Departing National MP Mark Blumsky has confirmed he will pursue a third term as Wellington's mayor in 2010 - and incumbent Kerry Prendergast says she will not stand in his way.

Mr Blumsky, who served as mayor from 1995 to 2001, said three frustrating years as an MP had rekindled his desire to return to the capital's top job.

He would have contested the mayoralty last year but did not want to stand against Ms Prendergast, his successor, whom he described as a good friend.

Ms Prendergast's decision not to seek a third term in 2010 had cleared the way for Mr Blumsky.

"I would never stand if she were contemplating staying," he said.

Ms Prendergast ended yesterday any possible consideration of staying on for a run in 2010.

"I'm not standing," she said.

"Nine years in the capital city is a significant period and I think it's time someone else had a go."

A former mayoral rival, John Morrison, who campaigned unsuccessfully for the role in 2001 and now serves as the council's economic development and recreation leader, said he had yet to turn his thoughts to 2010.

"I can't imagine I would want to do that. I never close off all options but it's highly unlikely. But I suppose when you get an incumbent leaving it's open season."

Ms Prendergast's deputy during her first two terms, Alick Shaw, who lost his council seat at last year's local body elections, offered a similar response to the question of a mayoral tilt.

"It's very unlikely, but you never know."

Mr Blumsky said that as an Opposition list MP, the job had been far from demanding. "I don't think I've been taxed to the extent the mayoralty taxed me."

His experience of central government, including working with National MPs whom he hoped would form the next government, would, however, make him a better mayoral prospect than he was in his first two terms.

"I'm a lot wiser now.

"I was 39 when I was the mayor the first time. If I think I can add value and do it better than I ever did, why not?"

- © Fairfax NZ News