Earlier optimism transformed to realism in Lawrence tonight, where NZ First list MP Mark Patterson conceded a result almost certain to end his embryonic political career. About 9.45pm, Taieri electorate Labour candidate Ingrid Leary was leading the race by a significant margin, ahead of National candidate Liam Kernaghan. Mr Patterson was running a close race for fourth with ACT Party candidate Robert Andrews at the time of writing, with 586 votes. Outgoing Lawrence-based NZ First list MP Mark Patterson reflects on defeat at The Prospector Cafe in Lawrence tonight, in the company of (from left) wife Jude, Young NZ First members Bernard Sabonadiere and Oliver Foxton, and campaign manager Keegan Langeveld. Mr Patterson, a Lawrence farmer, said he now planned to take some time to retrench.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 17, 2020 09:33 UTC