Jackson and Tamihere running for mayor

:00AM Thursday August 23, 2007By Wayne Thompson

Two former MPs turned talkback hosts have entered mayoral races - Willie Jackson in Manukau and John Tamihere in Waitakere.
Promising to inject lively and colourful debate into campaigns for their cities, the pair are also highlighting their track records for being forceful advocates.
They are aiming to replace retiring Manukau veteran Sir Barry Curtis and Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey, who is seeking a sixth term.
"The Maoris are coming" joked Mr Tamihere as he and Mr Jackson walked up the summit of Mt Eden yesterday. But Mr Jackson, his co-host on Radio Live, showed annoyance at being asked whether the duo, if elected, would show a more serious and bureaucratic side?
"Everything I've done is serious," said Mr Jackson. "We've been politicos all our lives, we have been advocates for years. We have a bit of fun but we also address serious issues.
"It's no publicity stunt. This a serious challenge by two people who are committed to representing people."