Former New Zealand Black Fern and Porirua's deputy mayor, Izzy Ford, has put her name forward for the mayoralty race in the New Zealand city.
Ms Ford, who is Samoan and grew up in Porirua, said after six years of learning the mechanics of the council process and due diligence, she and her family felt now was the right time to run.
Porirua deputy mayor, Izzy Ford Photo: RNZ Pacific
Over 51,000 people live in Porirua and Ms Ford said it is a strong multicultural city.
"The same reason why I stood for Eastern Ward six years ago is the same reason why I want to put my name forward for the mayoralty. I want to give back to a city that has given me so many opportunities," Izzy Ford said.
"Opportunities I know would have probably never have been exposed to had I not been brought up in this city. So, I think the time is right."
Izzy Ford said while the Porirua community faces numerous challenges, there are also various positive developments underway in the city too.