Retiring Labour MP Georgina Beyer has given a strong indication she will seek the Wellington mayoralty later this year.
Ms Beyer, who was the first transsexual elected to Parliament, stands down tomorrow to take up acting roles in the theatre.
Ms Beyer said she would decide in June on whether to run against incumbent mayor Kerry Prendergast, but was confident about her ability.
"I know I could do the job standing on my head, so to speak. I am full of the right sort of experience."
Ms Beyer said she had been involved in local body and central government politics for 14 years and wanted to take a few months to decide on whether she should carve out another political career.
"If I was to commit to Wellington it would have to be for a minimum of six years ... and I want to see if I am energised enough to take on that commitment. It is very tantalising," she said.
Ms Beyer believed if she did enter it would be a two-horse race.
"It is very satisfying to know that the incumbent has confirmed she will stand. It certainly makes it worthwhile from the aspect to make it a good contest."
Ms Beyer said the feedback from people in Wellington and elsewhere was "go for it girl".
The former mayor of Carterton met with her fellow Labour MPs for the last time today and would give her valedictory speech tomorrow.
"It's not going to be quite as dour as the previous valedictory," she said in reference to Don Brash's last speech in Parliament.
Asked what contribution she had made to politics, Ms Beyer said her election had sent a message around the world.
"Just my election and my being here spoke volumes of how attitudes on moral issues and attitudes towards people who may be a little different and unusual in this environment have definitely moved on."
Despite her background Ms Beyer had made it into Parliament in New Zealand and this had inspired other transsexuals to seek and win office.
Ms Beyer will be replaced by Southland union organiser Lesley Soper.
- NZPA