Mayor Michael Laws

Aged 50 years - the first Wanganui Mayor since 1995 to have gained a majority of the votes cast at the local body election.

"I love Wanganui. That's why I came home, and why I'm so excited with this city's potential. But it's time for a new vision, new energy and new ideas. And a fresh partnership that provides Wanganui with a national profile, a sense of community and a superior quality of life. That's why I'm promising a nil rates increase, a rejuvenated Old Town, a focus upon the creative arts and family events, and a business-friendly council that encourages both growth and jobs. But the key to Wanganui's future is vigorous, dynamic leadership. Because it is a competitive world and we need to promote Wanganui and its achievements at every opportunity. I will share key decisions with you – by promoting direct democracy and giving ratepayers and residents the final say on all issues of significance. In short, things are going to change. Wanganui will lead the country, and not follow."

Michael was raised and educated in Wanganui.

He attended Tawhero, Wanganui Intermediate and Wanganui Boys College before a stint at Whakatu freezing works and then on to Otago University.

Graduated with a First Class Honours degree from Otago and a UGC Postgraduate Scholarship. Would later graduate Master of Arts from Victoria University, completing the Bill Manhire Masters writing course (2000).

Worked as a university tutor (Otago) and parliamentary researcher (1985-89) before serving two terms as National MP for Hawke's Bay (1990-96). Resigned from Parliament April 1996 but returned to be campaign director for NZ First's 1996 campaign that delivered that party the balance of power. Retired from all politics at end of that campaign. Worked as a political consultant/public relations (1997).

Successfully defended himself in a three-week High Court jury trial against a $1 million defamation action prosecuted by a leading QC. (1997).

Since then Michael has reinvented himself as a writer, publisher, broadcaster and political commentator.

He has written three best-selling books ['The Demon Profession', 'Dancing with Beelzebub' and 'Gladiator – the Norm Hewitt story'. The latter was a #1 bestseller over Xmas 2000 for six weeks]. Also has established his own publishing business [Darius Press]; and does a variety of TV and radio work.

Currently hosting Radio Live talkback show 9am - noon (the only nationally broadcast talkback show in the country); writer/host of SKY TV Rugby Channel's 'Press Box' since 2003; weekly columnist with 'Sunday Star-Times' since 2001.

Previous TV work includes 'Intrepid Journeys' (to Ecuador), 'Celebrity Treasure Island' and 'Dancing with the Stars'.

Engaged to Leo(nie) and has four children (James, Rachel, Lucy and Zoe), two stepchildren (Ella and Noah) and one grandson (Jack). The Mayor and Mayoress are expecting another child in October 2008.