Michael Appleby (New Zealand)

Michael Appleby is the leader of the small Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party, a political party in New Zealand dedicated to the relaxation or repeal of laws against the use of cannabis. Appleby also stands as his party's candidate in the Wellington Central electorate, and gained approximately one percent of the vote in the most recent election. In the 1999 elections, he actually gained third place in Wellington Central, aided by the fact that most major candidates had pulled out to support either incumbent Richard Prebble or challenger Marian Hobbs in a close contest. In October 2004, stood unsuccessfully for the Wellington City Council. In addition to his political activity, Appleby practices as a lawyer.