Lianne Dalziel has announced her intentions to stand for another term as mayor of Christchurch
If successful, it would be her third term as mayor after she was elected in 2013.
Speaking to media outside Christchurch City Council this morning, Ms Dalziel said it was not an easy decision.
Her husband was diagnosed with cancer earlier in June but has responded well to treatment and is backing her intentions.
I’ve been asked whether I intend to nominate for another term as Mayor. Others want to make their decision based on what I do. So I owe it to them to make the call now. I intend to nominate for a further term as Mayor.
— Lianne Dalziel (@LianneDalziel) December 12, 2018
If she is elected, Ms Dalziel says the issues of water and chlorination will remain her priority.
She is expecting to be challenged for the position but says she doesn't know who her opponents will be.
The local body elections will be held in October next year.