Elected members have various duties, including attending meetings, reviewing reports, participating in briefings, conducting site visits, and responding to constituent inquiries.

The time commitment varies based on their role, such as chairperson, deputy chairperson, committee chair, or councillor. Full council meetings occur on the last Thursday of each month, and councillors may also join working parties, committees, subcommittees, or hearings. To understand community perspectives, they might attend local events. Reading requirements can be extensive, especially during periods of annual planning, annual reporting, and long-term planning amendments.

The demands of these roles may impact personal life due to public expectations of availability, although most interactions occur within reasonable hours.

Elected members come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a range of skills and experiences to the role. They need to be flexible, prioritise tasks and manage their time effectively. Knowledge of local iwi, te ao Māori and tikanga is beneficial. We are committed to fulfilling our responsibilities under Te Tiriti o Waitangi/The Treaty of Waitangi, Treaty Settlement Legislation, and our broader statutory obligations to Māori, as well as developing our partnership with Māori.

As a public figure, an elected member may be called upon to speak at meetings and events and provide comments to the media on certain issues. They need to listen to and relate to the people they represent, empathise with them, and consider their views in decision making. They should confidently communicate their own views and opinions when speaking publicly and engaging with the public.

A significant part of the role involves technology, so elected members should be proficient in using email, MS Teams, a smartphone, and a Surface Pro.

They need to utilise various sources when making decisions, including advice from council staff, community views, and their own experience and opinions. They need to consider opposing views, the financial and long-term consequences of decisions, and keep an open mind. Building and maintaining productive relationships and networks is essential.

Elected members should be willing to engage respectfully with people from different cultures and disciplines, including community members and council employees.

The Remuneration Authority, an independent body, sets the compensation for elected members nationwide.

The salaries of the current council are as follows:

• chairperson: $169,294
• deputy chairperson: $86,693
• committee chairs: $76,690 to $80,025
• councillor with no additional responsibilities: $66,687 

The Authority also stipulates provisions for mileage, travel, and allowances.