Winston Peters, leader of NZ First, has thrown his hat into the ring in the fight for the general seat of Northland at the coming by-election on March 28.
This follows the Māori Party's announcement it won't be standing a candidate there, focusing their attention instead on building support nationally for the 2017 General Elections.
When Winston Peters first entered Parliament, he unsuccessfully contested the Northern Māori seat.
So, having put his hand up now to stand in the general seat of Northland, Winston Peters knows he has a big challenge ahead.
It's the Northern descendant heading back home and he has a campaign message for Māori.
Sharp tongue Peters is chasing the Māori vote.
Peters says his stand is a challenge to the government, who he says has forgotten about the North.
A by-election was called following the resignation of Mike Sabin from the Northland seat. It's alleged he's under police investigation, but National are keeping tight-lipped.
The challenge from Labour candidate, Willow-Jean Prime, is the seat not be used for political grandstanding.
“If he wants to stand, good for him. My only comment to him would be to ensure he is standing for the people of Northland and not for personal agendas,” says Prime.
Tomorrow, National will choose its candidate. However, if NZ First does win, the real victors will be United Future and the Māori Party who will hold the balance of power, able to block government bills.
The challenge has certainly been laid down.