Budd is presenting his candidacy as something of a homecoming. The 43-year-old grew up in Whangārei before pursuing a career in real estate in Auckland and overseas, including serving as chief executive of Bayleys Auckland. His father, Mike Budd, stood for the Whangārei mayoralty in 2022.
Announcing his selection, Lloyd Budd said his priorities
include housing, education, and major local infrastructure projects such as the
proposed four-lane highway to Auckland and the redevelopment of Whangārei
Hospital.
The Whangārei electorate is widely regarded as a safe
National seat. Shane Reti regained it from Labour in 2023 with 48 percent of
the vote and a majority of 11,434. Labour has selected Dr Gary Payinda as its
candidate. Payinda is campaigning on a platform that includes opposition to any
moves to privatise services such as healthcare and education, although no major
party is currently proposing such policies.
NZ First has announced former WDC mayor Vince Cocurullo as
its candidate. LETTERBOX will be profiling the candidates in future issues.
More
Northern Advocate: New Zealand First picks ex-Whangārei mayor Vince Cocurullo for electorate
Northern Advocate: Election 2026: National Whangārei candidate Lloyd Budd outlines top priorities