Jami-Lee Ross is not ready to give up his electorate just yet.
The Independent MP will next year face off against his former party, National, in the general elections. 
Ross quit National last year after a public falling out with leader Simon Bridges and a battle with mental health. 
He told The Weekend Collective that he admits the end of last year was "a bit rough", but he is still confident of his abilities.
"As a MP who sits in between the two parties now, it means I get a lot more done now." 

Christopher Luxon addresses the National Party candidate selection meeting for the Botany electorate. Photo / Jason Oxenham
Ross says that he is already door-knocking and is out there every day talking to people, and an independent MP has a better chance at advocating for their party. 
He says that people can vote for National as their party vote, but they can still pick him as their MP.