Dunedin city councillor Sophie Barker is contemplating a run for mayor in the upcoming October elections. While she hasn't formally declared her candidacy, media outlets have speculated about her potential entry into the race. Barker currently prioritizes completing work on the city's long-term plan, indicating that a decision on her mayoral bid will not be made immediately.
Barker acknowledges significant public support urging her to run for mayor, emphasizing that this support is a key factor in her deliberations. The pressure from constituents is a considerable consideration in her decision-making process.
This would not be Barker's first attempt at the mayoralty. She previously ran in 2022, securing third place behind Jules Radich and Aaron Hawkins.
Her current focus lies on finalizing the city's long-term plan. The considerable workload associated with this project is preventing her from committing to a mayoral campaign in the near future.