Social Development Minister Paula Bennett has dispelled speculation the National Party might gift the new Auckland seat of Upper Harbour to the Conservative Party leader Colin Craig.
The creation of the new seat is among recommendations released on Thursday morning by the Representation Commission. In its review of electorate boundaries, the commission proposed the number of general electorates in Auckland be increased from 23 to 24.
The new Upper Harbour electorate would effectively replace Paula Bennett's existing Waitakere seat, drawing voters from the neighbouring East Coast Bays, Helensville and Te Atatu electorates.
In a statement, Mrs Bennett said it was important to clear up speculation about the boundary changes and so she is signalling her intention to stand in the seat.
Colin Craig on Thursday admitted that Paula Bennett would be a tough opponent to beat if they were to both stand for the seat.