Voters in Auckland have been saved by a technicality from having to choose between two candidates called John Banks running for the super city mayoralty.
The rejected candidate adopted the name by deed poll, but made the change too late.
Returning officer Dale Ofsoske has rejected a nomination from John Tailer Banks because his name was changed within a six month period prohibited by legislation.
John Archibald Banks is the current mayor of Auckland City and a leading contender for the new office.
Nominations close at noon on Friday, 20 August. Voting closes on 9 October.
The new Auckland Council comes into being on 1 November. It will replacing eight councils.
