The former Shotover Jet owner and ex-Christchurch International Airport boss, who says he will make up his mind early next year, will not cast judgement on the current council, saying he is interested in what happens in the future.
''I have lived in the district for coming on 34 years.
''I still love the place and I've put a lot into the town over the years and that has led me to consider [the mayoralty].
''I think I have something to deliver that would have benefit for the district going forward.''
News Mr Boult may bid to take over from Vanessa van Uden, who stands down next October, comes as a string of top managers leave the council.
That includes the announcement this week that controversial chief executive Adam Feeley is leaving.
Mr Boult (64) said he was weighing up the mayoralty because people had asked him to stand, including Queenstown investor and philanthropist Sir Eion Edgar.
''I think Jim, through his experience, would make an outstanding mayor,'' Sir Eion said.
''Jim has a great understanding of making sure you live within your costs, he has a proven track record in the tourism sector, he has a proven track record and love of Queenstown and he is a person that gets things done.''
If Mr Boult joins the mayoral race, his opponents, at this stage, will be deputy mayor Lyal Cocks, of Wanaka, and Kinloch's Al Angus, who also stood last time.
In the last New Year honours, Mr Boult was made an Officer of the NZ Order of Merit for services to tourism and the community, and this year joined the board of local tourism giant Real Journeys.
Last year, the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce awarded Mr Boult a lifetime achievement award.
- Mountain Scene
