Neighbourhood politics all good

They may be political rivals, but two Wellington mayoral candidates are insisting it won’t be neighbours at war now they’re only doors apart.

Porirua mayor Nick Leggett, who hopes to jump the fence to the Wellington job, has moved in across the road from his rival Justin Lester.

Anyone hoping for a political edition of Neighbours at War, however, will be disappointed.

‘‘It’s all fun and games,’’ laughed Lester.

‘‘My wife dropped over a plate of brownies [last week].’’

The move may prove daunting for Leggett.

Lester has lived in his Monowai Rd residence since 2010, and is familiar with the community.

‘‘We’ve got a lovely little street, lovely local school.’’

Lester had also been doorknocking as part of his campaign, and said that, as a fixture of the suburb, his efforts had been met with success.

However, Lester does not believe the relationship between him and Leggett will prove adversarial.

‘‘When this is all over, I’m looking forward to having a beer with him afterwards,’’ Lester said.

Leggett, for his part, was equally magnanimous.

‘‘Justin’s a good sport ... he offered to show me around when I first ran, and now he has an opportunity.’’