All Blacks great, Keven Mealamu, 43, is throwing his hat in the ring for local government election.
The former All Blacks and Auckland Blues star, who starred in 132 tests before retiring in 2015, is planning to stand as an independent in Franklin ward for the Auckland Council.
In a promotional video released this week, Mr Mealamu said he had been lucky enough to live in Papakura for 13 years.
“I have a real passion for Papakura. Our kids went to school there. I coached at the local rugby club and my wife was a netball coach as well. We have a real passion for this place, he said.
The Franklin ward seat is currently held by Auckland Council deputy mayor, Bill Cashmore, who is not expected to stand for election this year.
Before the elections hit, however, the famous hooker is facing another challenge. He is set to take on former league player, Wairangi Koopu, in a Fight For Life Charity boxing fundraiser on Friday.
