Project Rejuvenation

Derek Cheng writes in the Herald:

North Shore MP Wayne Mapp has surprised his colleagues by saying he will leave politics after this parliamentary term.

The Cabinet minister’s decision opens up a fourth safe National Party seat for new blood next year.

As well as his North Shore seat there is Northland, where John Carter is stepping down; Rodney, where Speaker Lockwood Smith will move to the party list; and Botany, vacated by Pansy Wong.

On top of those four, there may be a further announcement or two in the near future. Plus you have Epsom where the nomination might be keenly sought, as they are likely to have a winnable list place.

I remarked last night to a journalist that it was ironic that it is the party on 55% in the polls that is rejuvenating, while the party at 31% is not so much.

Anyway aspiring candidates in Auckland have Northland, Rodney, North Shore and Botany to consider. The most marginal of those seats has a 10,054 majority and the safest a 15,635 majority. In other words, those who win the nominations should have a long parliamentary career ahead of them.