The Labour Party has chosen former iwi chair and businessman, Adrian Rurawhe, to contest the Te Tai Hauauru seat at next year's election.
The Whanganui local's candidacy was confirmed at a hui in Ratana on Tuesday.
Mr Rurawhe lead Ngati Apa into settlement in 2011 and is now a business manager at the Maori Research Institute, Te Atawhai o te Ao.
He says he is going into the elections with his eyes wide open, and is very clear about the kaupapa he needs to uphold and how he needs to do it.
His campaign will focus on youth unemployment and regional development.
Mr Rurawhe says it is not going to be easy but he's up for the challenge, and has a very strong campaign team behind him.
Chris McKenzie will stand for the Maori Party in place of the outgoing co-leader, Tariana Turia, who currently has the seat.
