MP Jacqui Dean and Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher both denied they would be leaving their positions before their current and possible next terms were up, after a rumour and subsequent denial circulated on social media recently.
Mr Kircher went public on Facebook last week categorically stating he was committed to his role as mayor as long as he did not suffer a serious injury, death or other life-changing issue.
He said he was asked in an email if he was considering office in Parliament.
He said it was a rumour that circulated in the Waitaki area every now and then, but this time he wanted to stop it.
``It's just when I was asked that and I talked to other people and they had heard the rumour as well.
``I keep saying no.
``I'm not going anywhere. I've got a lot I want to achieve over the next three years.''
He believed he could do more for Waitaki as mayor ``rather than doing something else''.
``The speculation among the politically aware around Oamaru is that she could seek a position on the National list next election, leaving the place open for someone else,'' the post from Allan Dick said.
When contacted, Mrs Dean said she had no intention of stepping down as the electorate MP.
``I'm going to offer myself humbly to the voting public in the general election next year.
``I thoroughly enjoy this role. It's a huge privilege to be a member of Parliament and a huge privilege to represent Waitaki.''
Mrs Dean said Waitaki was one
of the largest electorates and had much to be proud of, but it faced challenges in health and environmental issues associated with agriculture that she was committed to working on for the foreseeable future.
