Tamaki

Adam Bennett in the NZ Herald reports:

Tamaki MP Allan Peachey is understood to be considering standing aside in November as fresh concerns emerge about his health.

Mr Peachey was elected to the safe National seat in 2005 but was diagnosed with cancer shortly afterwards.

He recovered after a 12cm tumour and his right kidney were removed but had to take a break of several weeks last year after a lung collapsed.

This year he contracted septicaemia which affected his appearance, but more recently appeared in Parliament bald.

Allan has had a tough time health-wise, and if his decision is not to re-stand that will be very understandable.

If he does stand down, National will have to have an expedited selection process to find a new candidate. I imagine some of those who missed out in Botany and Epsom could also seek the Tamaki nomination.

UPDATE: And the news is now out that Allan has indeed decided to retire.