Councillors

Having lived in Marton for more than forty years I know what a great town it is and how unique the Rangitīkei District is. I understand the challenges we face, not only with new infrastructure but socially and environmentally too. Our Council and district are needing to navigate its way through a number of challenging reviews or reforms being undertaken or planned by the government. There's significant new infrastructure projects planned, with a number already started, including a long overdue new water source and treatment plant to address the issues around Marton's drinking water.

Born in the RangitIkei, I passionately advocate for thriving rural communities. My husband, Alex and I have been farming sheep and beef in Hunterville for the past 30 years. After gaining my degree in Business Studies, I practised locally as a registered property valuer. I am a member of IOD and have served on school boards and a variety of community committees locally. Our District is experiencing significant growth and development with considerable asset upgrades now needed.

I am a lifelong Rangitīkei resident, farming in Hunterville and Crofton. I have been active in many clubs in the district and have gained great insights on the people that make up our amazing district and their passion for where they live. Rural and urban Rangitikei are very closely intertwined, and it is important I can represent both communities. It has been exciting to see the growth that has been happening, it is important future growth continues in a way that we don't lose what makes the Rangitīkei special.

I have lived in Marton with my partner Felicity for 17 years. My Physiotherapy and Acupuncture business in Bulls (and previously Taihape) is a successful service to the community. I am a family man with 5 adult children, a bridge player and treasure the communities I have served in health care. I want to see our Council invest in all the good people that live here and make the Rangitikei an even better place to live and work. Inflationary pressures require prudent and risk adverse fiscal management. My strengths lie in listening, inclusiveness, and innovative, clear and critical thinking.

I've lived and farmed in the Rangitikei District for 28 years, from a sharemilker to eventually buying my own farm. My past governance experience has been within the dairy industry notably the Fonterra Shareholders Council and the NZ Dairy Industry Awards. From 2017-2021 I worked as an International Dairy Consultant in Myanmar, Indonesia and Fiji implementing NZ Government aid projects. There's much to do in the areas of infrastructure, environment, health, and social justice. I believe my experience can add value to ensure sustainability and economic realities can be developed hand in hand.

My principal place of residence is in the Northern Ward area. Family farming, three children and community focused, I have spent 15 years working in and with RDC. Now, using community engagement and my relationship building skills, I will continue to represent and advocate for Taihape, town and country, for real workable outcomes.

I am immersed in the local community. Born and schooled in Taihape, I worked in our family Four Square for thirty years until 2018 and served and interacted with the locals seven days a week. I have been involved with the local high school, teaching part-time, and community groups including Lions Club, Victim Support Committee, Drama Club, Car Club, Health Trust and I currently serve as a Justice of the Peace. A fresh and open mind is needed to navigate a clear path respecting the past; yet making the most of what changes will bring while minimising conflict on an ever tightening budget.

Bulls has always been my home. I grew up here, my wife and I raised our three children here, and our two granddaughters enjoy visiting us here. I'm now retired after 30 years of running my own upholstery business in Bulls. Being part of the community is important to me. I am the Chief Fire Officer for the Bulls Volunteer Fire Brigade and a serving member for over 50 years. I am also a Justice of the Peace. I have been on the Council for nearly two terms. I have asked the tough questions and made sure the views of the community were heard. I think Bulls is a great place and want to see the region grow and succeed.

Kaupeka Ki Runga Kaupeka Ki Raro Kui Kui Whiti Whiti Ora E! Ko Aorangi Te Maunga, Ko Moawhango rahi Te Awa, Ko Ngati Whitikaupeka Te Iwi, Ko Moawhango Te Marae, He uri ahau no Nga Iwi Nui tonu o Mokai Patea. Experience from my first term as a Northern Ward councillor has highlighted how well Rangitīkei communities can work together, the importance of building and fostering trusting relationships, managing expectations and how Māori contribute positively into the health and wellbeing of this rohe. Having the opportunity to become the first Tiikeitia Ki Uta Ward councillor is an honour.