Wilson, Gallagher may stand

Political figures from the city's past may throw their hats in the ring for Hamilton's local body elections.

Former Hamilton West Labour MP Martin Gallagher and former city councillor and Kiwi Air boss Ewan Wilson are not ruling out standing for Hamilton City Council in the October elections.

Mr Wilson said he had not ruled out standing for either councillor or mayor at this stage. Hamilton-based Mr Wilson runs a tour company with his wife Monique but said he would dedicate himself to the council if he ran. Mr Gallagher, who was ousted by National MP Tim Macindoe in the 2008 parliamentary elections, was also contemplating the move from central to local government.

Mr Gallagher returned to teaching after losing his seat.

"A number of people have talked to me about a possible role in local government and I am generally undecided. I will make that call later on."

There's also speculation that key figures in the arts, social services and business worlds are being shoulder-tapped in a bid for these industries to be well represented at council.

Hamilton adult entertainer Lisa Lewis is yet to decide whether she would spice up local body elections by standing for council but ruled out a mayoral run.

Nominations open on July 23 and close on August 20.

- © Fairfax NZ News