The Alliance Party is in talks over the creation of a new left-wing political party.
Alliance co-leader Kay Murray says the party is in discussions with former Green Party MP Sue Bradford and Unite Union head Matt McCarten.
She says low wages and the growing gap between rich and poor are fuelling interest in setting up a new party.
Ms Murray says the Alliance, which doesn't have a seat in Parliament, will contest the election regardless of whether a new party is established, although it would rather work with others.
Ms Bradford said on Monday that there have been discussions on the formation of a new left-wing party since November.