Efeso Collins to stand for Auckland Mayor

Stuff reports:

Auckland councillor Fa’anana Efeso Collins has confirmed he’ll run for mayor in October, creating what may be a contest between rival, Labour-aligned candidates.

Collins, who is Samoan, told Stuff it was a “bold move” he had been considering since last August.

The high-profile Manukau ward councillor’s mayoral confirmation will cause a flurry in Labour party circles, with fellow left-leaning councillor Richard Hills also poised to confirm a bid.

It is well known that Hills is the choice of Ardern and the Labour elite. He will be Labour’s candidate.

But Collins is implying he will stand, even if Hills gets Labour’s endorsement. That could split votes badly for the centre-left and allow a more fiscally responsible candidate to win.