ISSUE
Friday, August 22, 2025
Volume 16 . Issue 73
Auckland mayoral candidate Viv Beck is quitting the race in a bid to avoid splitting the centre-right vote with Wayne Brown.
"My decision comes with a heavy heart but given the strength of concern about issues that need addressing across our region, it is important to avoid splitting the centre-right vote".
Last month, former Auckland mayor and National MP John Banks said Beck should throw in the towel to give rival and former Far North mayor Wayne Brown a better go.
Beck, who is the chief executive of Heart of the City, was standing as an independent candidate.
Her campaign took a recent hit following news of an unpaid $353,000 bill from an advertising company.
In a statement today, Beck said she was concerned about "gross inaccuracies" said about her and her campaign, and would be "reflecting on the impact this type of behaviour has on democracy".
"Overall, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with so many people over the last few months and to hear their views on what needs to be done if we are to realise our region's full potential.
"I'd like to see our region thrive, with a shared vision for a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable future and I look forward to playing my part in making this a reality."
Voting papers are already being sent out, so Beck's name will still appear on the ballot.
In August, another mayoral candidate, Leo Molloy also pulled out.
Beck was on Morning Report two days ago pitching her style of leadership to voters, particularly her "open mind".
Auckland mayoral candidate Viv Beck is quitting the race in a bid to avoid splitting the centre-right vote with Wayne Brown.
"My decision comes with a heavy heart but given the strength of concern about issues that need addressing across our region, it is important to avoid splitting the...
Auckland mayoral candidate Viv Beck is quitting the race in a bid to avoid splitting the centre-right vote with Wayne Brown.
"My decision comes with a heavy heart but given the strength of concern about issues that need addressing across our region, it is important to avoid splitting the centre-right vote".
Last month, former Auckland mayor and National MP John Banks said Beck should throw in the towel to give rival and former Far North mayor Wayne Brown a better go.
Beck, who is the chief executive of Heart of the City, was standing as an independent candidate.
Her campaign took a recent hit following news of an unpaid $353,000 bill from an advertising company.
In a statement today, Beck said she was concerned about "gross inaccuracies" said about her and her campaign, and would be "reflecting on the impact this type of behaviour has on democracy".
"Overall, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with so many people over the last few months and to hear their views on what needs to be done if we are to realise our region's full potential.
"I'd like to see our region thrive, with a shared vision for a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable future and I look forward to playing my part in making this a reality."
Voting papers are already being sent out, so Beck's name will still appear on the ballot.
In August, another mayoral candidate, Leo Molloy also pulled out.
Beck was on Morning Report two days ago pitching her style of leadership to voters, particularly her "open mind".
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