National Party Leader John Key says National wants to win Tauranga at the next election and is moving swiftly to select a replacement candidate following Bob Clarkson's decision to step down at the election.

"Bob did an outstanding job winning Tauranga against the odds at the last election, and I want National to retain the seat later this year and improve on Bob's majority.

"Accordingly, the party will be moving as quickly as possible to re-open nominations for the seat and select a candidate.

"I would like to publicly thank Bob for his contribution to National during this term, and I wish him well for the future.

"Make no mistake, National will be mounting a strong fight to retain the seat and ensure the Tauranga electorate continues to have a strong National voice in the next Parliament.

"I know that the local party organisation will be working as hard as possible to make sure that happens."