The political contest in the Auckland electorate of Epsom is showing signs of being a battle between the ACT and National parties.
Businessman and former city councillor Aaron Bhatnager has indicated he plans to seek the National Party nomination for Epsom in the general election.
Former National MP and Auckland City Mayor John Banks will stand for the ACT in Epsom, following the ousting of Rodney Hide as party leader in April.
Mr Bhatnager says he is going to seek the nomination for National because the electorate needs a fresh pair of eyes.
He says Epsom has gone through a confusing and difficult period of politics, but he believes National can win the seat back.
Mr Banks says he is relaxed about competing against the National Party's likely candidate.
He told Morning Report that Mr Bhatnagar is a first class citizen.
But, he said, he won 75% of the votes cast in Epsom for last year's Auckland mayoralty election.
Mr Banks and Mr Bhatnager worked as part of the Citizens & Ratepayers group on the former Auckland City Council.
