David Parker has withdrawn for the race to be Labour's next leader.
In a statement, Mr Parker said he remained committed to Labour ideals and would work hard to achieve them for New Zealanders and the country.
"There is growing support for a new face to lead the Labour Party. I intend to support David Shearer in his bid."
His withdrawal leaves Mr Shearer running against David Cunliffe for the position.
It is understood he is withdrawing because the bloc within the Labour caucus that opposes Mr Cunliffe's bid was split between Mr Parker and Mr Shearer.
Current leader Phil Goff and his deputy Annette King step down on December 13.
The remaining contenders to replace Phil Goff will take to the roads over the next fortnight to make their pitches to party members in a far more open process than the party has followed in the past.
The position will be chosen by caucus in a secret ballot.
lthough only caucus can vote on the leadership, the candidates will travel around the country to a series of meetings with party members in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and possibly Dunedin to set out their case.
The party has opted for a more open process than in the past, partly because of criticism about the swift handover to outgoing leader Phil Goff after Helen Clark resigned.
Party president Moira Coatsworth said some Labour parties overseas involved party members in the formal process of selecting new leaders.
She had suggested to caucus on Tuesday that the party here pick up elements of that by organising the roadshow to allow members to talk to the candidates and give feedback to their local Labour MPs.
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