New Zealand First has confirmed today that former Minister of Defence Ron Mark will be standing for the party in the Wairarapa electorate this election.

Mark brings much needed experience and skills having served as a Member of Parliament and as a senior Minister in government.

His ministerial portfolios have included Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and State-Owned Enterprises, where he earned a reputation for strong leadership, sound decision-making and delivering practical outcomes. 

Mark has previously served as Mayor of Carterton, working closely with local communities to strengthen infrastructure, support economic growth and improve local services across the district. 

Before entering politics, Mark served with distinction in the New Zealand Army, developing the leadership, discipline and commitment to service that have defined his career. 

More recently, Mark has continued serving internationally, travelling to Ukraine during the war to support humanitarian and reconstruction efforts and to assist communities affected by the conflict. 

With a lifetime of service in the military, local government, Parliament and internationally, Ron Mark brings proven leadership and a deep commitment to serving the people of New Zealand.