Federated Farmers has announced that there are four names on the list of nominees to succeed Don Nicolson when he retires as President of the organisation on July 1.

The four, believed to be the largest number of candidates seeking the office, will be taking part in the first contested election for President since the early 90’s.

They are Donald Aubrey of Ben McLeod Station, Frank Brenmuhl of Christchurch, Lachlan McKenzie from Rotorua and Bruce Wills from Napier.

The election takes place in Rotorua at the Federated Farmers 2011 Annual General Meeting.