The most visible political wannabe in New Plymouth is keeping ratepayers guessing about whether he'll actually stand for mayor or not.
Murray McDowell has been preparing for his campaign for over two years. Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin
Murray McDowell - aka Muzza or the Mullet Man - has been a constant sight in the city for more than two years, resplendent in his 'Muzz for Mayor' and 'Vote the Mullet' t-shirts.
The walking-talking campaign billboard that is McDowell is a regular at the Northgate entrance to New Plymouth on State Highway 3.
He cannot be missed
Harley parked nearby, the 53-year-old former storeman sports one of the more striking blonde mullets you're ever likely to see.
"Well 'Vote the Mullet' is my identity and has been in excess or up to 25 years and 'Muzz for Mayor', the thing is, I'm unofficial, I haven't declared where but it doesn't mean I'm not going to at the appropriate point in time and it's actually Friday 5 August."
The look is rounded off with work jeans, a pair of Redband gumboots and a packet of roll-your-own tobacco.
For up to 25 years McDowell says 'Vote the Mullet' has been part of his identity. Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin
But there's no point in pushing Murray McDowell - who regularly attends New Plymouth District Council meetings - for policy.
"Well I haven't declared mayor of where yet so I can't answer that question because I'm not interested in being a councillor, my t-shirt doesn't say 'Muzz for Councillor'.
"But it is this year - 2022. I've been waiting, like I was saying, over two years, two-and-a-half years I've been being myself encouraging people and acknowledging them as they acknowledge me."
The only mayoral candidates to so far declare their hands are two current councillors.
Murray Chong reckoned he had the experience required for the job.
"I've been pretty open up front and honest and pretty set in what I've stood for all the way my three terms, so people can rely on that.
"And I think a change is needed because our rates rises are not sustainable going into the future for our children."
Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin
The mortgage broker and financial adviser said if elected mayor he would fight three waters legislation and introduce referenda on significant policy changes.
First-term councillor Sam Bennett also thought he had leadership chops.
"So for me it's just a natural progression for me into a different leadership role. It's not a leadership role I've taken lightly.
"I have observed for many years and had the aspiration to lead this district, so unlike other candidates this has not just come out of the cupboard for me. This has been a planned process of leadership and I just believe the time is right."
Sam Bennett believes the time is right to throw his hat in the leadership ring. Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin
The celebrant and public speaking coach said if elected he would work to implement the council's current 10 year plan - which included a $250 million investment in water infrastructure.
He looked forward to the prospect of locking horns with Muzz McDowell if he stood.
"Do I think he'll have an influence if he stands on the numbers ... absolutely 100 percent because you know, he's such a character."
Chong wanted to hear more from that character.
"Well you've got to give it to him, he's certainly doing his own original form of campaigning and he's getting himself know out there and we just need to find out what his policies are."
The Mullet Man had certainly made an impact on the streets of New Plymouth.
One man was backing him for sure.
"Oh I hope he wins. He's all for the people by the look of it, the mullet and all."
A grandmother saw the appeal.
"I've got two grandchildren with hair like that."
Another woman was prepared to look beyond the coiffure.
"Why not? Just cause he's got a different hairstyle why not? I think it's great."
Dave thought he was in with a chance.
"He'll give those guys a run for their money."
But another woman wasn't so sure.
"I would like to know just a little more about him."
It was an opinion shared with another passer-by.
"I don't know where he stands on anything."
But he still had other fans.
"He's the man. He's passionate about it so why not."
And other detractors.
"Will I be voting for him? No, sorry but I won't."
The current mayor Neil Holdom said he would be making an announcement on his future plans in June.
His runner up in 2019, businessman Max Brough, said he would not be standing again.
Local body election nominations open on 15 July and close on 12 August.
Ballot papers will delivered between Friday 16 September and Wednesday 21 September.
Voting closes midday Saturday 8 October .
