Candidates

Tamahere

Wednesday, 10 September, 4pm-6pm

Downstairs Meeting Room, Tamahere Community Centre, Devine Road, Tamahere

Saturday, 20 September, 11am-1.30pm

Downstairs Meeting Room, Tamahere Community Centre, Devine Road, Tamahere

Te Kōwhai

Friday, 19 September, 7pm

Te Kōwhai War Memorial Hall

Te Awamutu

Thursday, 18 September, 1pm-3pm

Waipā Workingmen's Club, 139 Albert Park Drive, Te Awamutu

Thursday, 18 September, 6.30pm-8.30pm

Te Awamutu Rugby Sports & Recreation Club, 420 Albert Park Drive, Te Awamutu

Ōtorohanga

Monday, 15 September, 6pm

Ōtorohanga College Hall,
2 Bledisloe Avenue

Kāwhia

Friday, 19 September, 6pm

Te Rau Aroha Centre
Next door to Kāwhia Methodist Church on Jervois Street

027 306 3973
pamchiles@hotmail.com
Hamilton

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

We can save the planet. We already do recycling and composting, and carbon emissions are reduced when more people use public transport. I was born in the Waikato, but for almost 30 years I lived in countries with efficient public transport. I have been making representations to the Waikato Regional Council since 2021 concerning Hamilton's buses. My efforts have had no effect. Recently, huge plans for changes to bus routes along with a feedback form were on the regional council's website. This was not advertised and was difficult to find, navigated only through clicking on several links and scrolling down pages. It was open for 19 days. This is not public consultation. As a councillor I wish to improve transparency, routes, signage and the transit app so that taking public transport is a more viable option for us all.

027 437 6280
clarksonb@xtra.co.nz
Hamilton

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

My principal place of residence is Kirikiriroa Hamilton. I am married to Bev; we have two grown-up daughters and two grandsons. My background in environmental science is highly relevant to the councillor role with more than 40 years of experience. I have a strong track record of helping community groups and iwi to achieve their aspirations in sustaining our land, water and environment. I seek your support for serving a second term on council. In the last 3 years, I have served diligently on many committees focusing on biodiversity and biosecurity issues. These challenging times require the Waikato Regional Council to perform at its full potential. I will use my skills and expertise to help us take a more collaborative, evidence-based approach to the many challenges that lie ahead. Our focus needs to be on ensuring that we do not compromise the inheritance and wellbeing of future generations.
fb.com/bruceclarksonforwrc

0220 741 956
benjamin@wavespeed.co.nz
Hamilton

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

Times are tough for many people.

If you are having to tighten your belt, then so should the Regional Council!

That’s the purpose of the Rates Control Team.

We’re a region-wide team who are determined to drive efficiencies, reduce waste and cut costs.

• Our team made strong efforts to return $2.5 million surplus back to ratepayers. But we were blocked by a casting vote.
• If Rates Control is elected with a Majority this time, we’re determined to return this surplus back to you as rates reductions.
• We say it’s time to cut costs, such as slashing the $16.9 million spent on consultants last year.
• Our team believes precious water resources should be administered for the benefit of all New Zealanders. We oppose the creep of co-governance into decision-making on freshwater.
• For a new pragmatic approach, please vote for me and support Rates Control.

www.ratescontrolteam.co.nz

021 956 476
chris@moanui.co.nz
Hamilton

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

The most common complaint I hear is our Rates are too expensive. I agree.

It’s time to take action to reduce rates below the level of inflation.

That’s why I am part of the Rates Control Team standing for re-election to the Regional Council. 

We support economic growth combined with balanced infrastructure commitments. In these tough times now is not the time for nice to haves.

We want to drive efficiencies and reduce costs, particularly the almost $17 million annual spend on external consultants. However we need your support to give us a majority to achieve this.

With a senior Chartered Accountancy background, my priority is fiscal prudence and responsibility to you, the ratepayer. As Finance Chair I was instrumental in keeping 2026 rates increase at 5.7%. This could have been 4% with greater councillor support. We can do better!

Please give your valuable vote to Rates Control Team.

027 520 5213
Jen4wrc@gmail.com
Hamilton

Independent

My principal place of residence is not in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

On council, I know how to get things done; providing clear direction, fostering inclusive leadership, and scrutinising rates responsibly.

I’ve supported community-led biodiversity and climate initiatives, improved public transport options like Te Huia, the Meteor bus and community shuttles, and championed energy and water security and reducing pollution.

Looking ahead, I’ll push reform and stronger collaboration across councils and with Parliament to deliver smarter shared-services and efficiencies.

I’m seeking re-election to build a more connected region where communities work together, essentials are affordable, and nature is respected.

Our environment underpins our health and prosperity. Success depends on how we work with each other and with nature to build true community wealth.

With degrees in science and sustainability, and leadership roles at Fonterra, I’ve led operational teams, supported compliance, and built community connections.

I’m approachable, committed, and ready to keep working hard for real outcomes. Please vote for me. www.jennifernickel.com

021 155 3595
Henrypenny271@gmail.com
Hamilton

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

I’m standing for Waikato Regional Council to bring a pragmatic, evidence-based voice to the table. With over 25 years of experience in software development across Australasia, the UK, and the US, I understand how to solve complex problems and work collaboratively across diverse communities. I’ve lived in Hamilton on and off since 1990, and I care deeply about our region’s future.

I believe in protecting our environment — but doing so in a way that is practical, science-backed, and enables rather than obstructs those working to get things done. It’s time to streamline the policies that matter, and cut the ones that don’t.

I’ll advocate for ratepayers, business owners, and grassroots community initiatives, ensuring their voices are heard in Council decisions. If elected, I’ll push for policies that are outcomes-focused, fiscally responsible, and genuinely support the well-being of the Waikato region.

0274 923 890
Robin@modtrans.co.nz
Hamilton

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

I've lived in the Waikato for over 60 years and been in business here for 53 years.

As the founder and CEO of the Modern Transport Group of companies, I employ over 400 people across New Zealand and Australia, with the majority based right here in the Waikato.

Over the decades, I've built more than just trailers - I've built jobs, supported families, developed industrial land, and navigated every challenge local businesses face. I've dealt with councils on planning, infrastructure, flooding, and compliance, and I've seen how out-of-touch decisions and red tape affect real people.

I'm standing for the Waikato Regional Council because I believe it's time for common sense, accountability, and leadership grounded in real-world experience.

I want to protect our environment, support smart development, and ensure our rates are spent wisely.

I care deeply about this region - I've helped build it, and I want to help shape its future.

027 370 5457
angestrange@gmail.com
Hamilton

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

I am seeking re-election to Waikato Regional Council to continue delivering practical, future-focused decisions that protect our environment and support thriving, connected and resilient communities for generations to come.

As a long-time Hamilton resident and Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors with extensive governance experience, I bring strategic insight, prudent financial management, and a collaborative approach to decision-making.

I believe in working across councils, businesses, and communities to tackle complex regional challenges in a joined-up, forward-thinking way. Protecting biodiversity and strengthening biosecurity remain key priorities.

I'm committed to a balanced, efficient transport network that improves safety for all and connects people. This includes better public transport, well-maintained roads, and strong regional connections.

Our growing region faces both challenges and opportunities.
We need experienced, steady leadership to navigate a responsible path. With your support, I’d be honoured to continue this important work.
Re-elect Angela Strange for Waikato Regional Council

021 589 915
bjabhi@gmail.com
Hamilton

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

Kia ora, I’m Bala Tikkisetty, standing for the Waikato Regional Council to represent Hamilton.

I bring over 25 years of experience working with regional councils, underpinned by a strong background in agricultural sciences (post-graduate), environmental sustainability and governance.

I offer practical, science-based solutions that support clean water, climate resilience, and a healthy natural environment.

My focus is on delivering value for your rates dollar through financial discipline, accountability, and well-planned investment in biodiversity, biosecurity, and affordable transport.

As a Justice of the Peace and long-time community advocate, I listen carefully and work collaboratively to ensure your voice is heard. I’m a strong networker and a pragmatic problem-solver who will represent Hamilton with integrity and action.

Let’s work together to protect our environment, support our productive base, and build a more sustainable future for our region.
I live in Hamilton with my wife, son, daughter-in-law and a granddaughter.

022 139 0206
phillipwestwood@hotmail.com
Hamilton

Independent

My principal place of residence is not in the Hamilton General Constituency area.

I graduated with a Bachelor Commerce Degree from Auckland University in 1972 and worked in Auckland for three years before going on OE to England where I worked as an accountant for three years and travelled through Europe and parts of North Africa. In 1978 I returned to NZ and settled in Hamilton where I lived for 24 years.

In 2002 I decided to go China to teach English as a second language for a year but stayed over 10 years teaching and travelling. I believe this has given me a unique insight into where a large part of the future for NZ lies and a greater understanding of Eastern values.

In 2012 I returned to NZ. I would now like to put something back into the Waikato district and believe that my experiences give me a broader view that will be helpful.

021 919 398
mahutatipa@gmail.com
Ngā Hau e Whā

My principal place of residence is in the Ngā Hau e Whā Māori Constituency area.

Teenaa koutou e ngaa uri whakatupu, e ngaa marae maha, taatou hoki ngaa ohaakii o ngaa tuupuna. Kia tau ngaa manaakitanga ki too taatou Kuini Ngawaihonoitepo. Pai Maarire.
As the Ngaa Hau e Whaa ward councillor, I advocated for inclusion of whaanau, hapuu and iwi across the work of Council.
We have grown iwi and council relationships through Joint Management Agreements and by asking council to show up for and within the Maaori community.
We have advocated and supported rangatahi growth and leadership; sponsoring more than ten rangatahi to complete the Tuia programme, Summer internships and the establishment of the Wai Tii, Wai Taa Taiao Education programme.
There is a programme of taiao/ environmental reform that requires us as Maaori to respond in a lot of ways as Kaitiaki, Manawhenua, landowners and ratepayers. I am committed to ensuring we are at every table and forum that we create as Council.

mhgmoanat@gmail.com
Ngā Hau e Whā

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Ngā Hau e Whā Māori Constituency area.

E mihi ana ki te Atua, ki Te Arikinui Kuīni Ngā wai hono i te pō, ki ngā mate o te wā, ki a koutou katoa. Tēnā koutou.

Kō Mōkai Kāinga te Marae.
Kō Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai tōku ingoa.
Kei Ngāruawāhia e noho ana mātou.

It’s exciting to stand for the Ngā Hau E Whā Constituency in these local body elections.

I bring a kete of skills that will be helpful as a Regional Councillor. These include:

• Certified Environmental Commissioner,
• Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand,
• Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, and
• a volunteer on the Justices of the Peace community help desk in Ngāruawāhia.

I stand for:

• Healthy environments
• Affordable levels of service
• Economic opportunities
• Safe and effective transport choices
• Protected special places
• Community voice

If any of these things are important to you please vote for me.

Vote Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai.

Tēnā tātou katoa.

0274 508 905
katarainahodge@gmail.com
Ngā Tai ki Uta

Independent
My principal place of residence is in the Ngā Tai ki Uta Māori Constituency area.
E mihi kau ana ahau kia koutou ngā hapū, iwi me ngā tāngata hoki ki roto ki te Kaunihere ā rohe o Waikato (Waikato Regional Council) te rohe o Ngā Tai ki Uta.
I’ve had the privilege of serving Ngā Tai ki Uta Constituency with a deep commitment to Māori representation in decision making and will be standing for re-election in this triennium elections of 2025 to 2027
My mahi is anchored in whanaungatanga and kotahitanga, fostering unity and shared purpose with whānau, hapū, and iwi.
I’ve worked to embed our voices within council processes, believing Māori must be present at every table where our futures are shaped.
Guided by manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga, I’ve championed policies that uplift people and protect our environment.
Progress comes from collaboration, respect, and shared vision. I am honoured by your trust and inspired by the legacy we build—he taonga mō ngā mokopuna

027 337 4804
debeedavies@gmail.com
Taupō-Rotorua

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Taupo-Rotorua General Constituency area.

I was born in Taupo 57 years ago and have a strong personal connection to the Taupo/Rotorua region, especially its freshwater resources, which I view as precious taonga.

Childhood memories along the Waikato River and eeling with my father inspired my lifelong passion for protecting our waterways.

I have worked closely with farmers — many of whom care deeply about water quality despite public misconceptions. With rising costs and mortgage pressures on ratepayers, I believe any rate increases must be fair and balanced.

I bring over 20 years of governance experience as a Director, Trustee, and board member across health, farming, and environmental sectors, demonstrating consistent leadership and dedication.

I’m committed to representing our district with integrity and ensuring our water remains clean for future generations.

I respectfully seek your support in this election to continue advocating for the well-being of our community and the natural environment we all share.

021 781 593
senjo@xtra.co.nz
Taupō-Rotorua

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Taupo-Rotorua General Constituency area.

My name is Mike Downard and I am seeking the opportunity to represent you and the Taupō community. I have proudly lived in Taupō for over 35 years with my wife, Tania, where we’ve raised our five children. I am deeply committed to serving our community and bring extensive leadership experience across a range of local organisations.

My service includes roles such as Taupō District Councilor (6 years), Deputy Mayor (3 years), Waikato Regional Councilor (3 years), and board chair positions, both primary chair (15 years) and secondary chair (6 years). I’ve also contributed to groups including St John, Search and Rescue, Blue Light NZ, Waiora Trust, and the Sports Advisory Council.

As a business owner for 30 years, employing up to 30 staff, I understand the importance of sound decision-making, accountability, and fairness. I am ready to lead with integrity and dedication, and I will not let you down.

0210 2747 494
dkmair@gmail.com
Taupō-Rotorua

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Taupo-Rotorua General Constituency area.

As a local ecologist and environmental advocate, I’m standing to protect Lake Taupō, our rivers, and the landscapes we love. I bring decades of experience in ecology, problem solving, project management, and community engagement.

Taupō needs strong regional leadership to protect water quality, enable sustainable land use, and partner with Tangata Whenua and landowners. As extreme weather increases, we must invest in nature-based flood protection and support community resilience, connection, and sustainable infrastructure.

If elected, I’ll champion:

• Stronger protections for freshwater, biodiversity, and biosecurity
• Support for landowners and iwi in restoration and climate adaptation
• Community voices at the council table
• Native planting to capture carbon, improve water quality, and boost biodiversity and resilience

My commitment to healthy waterways, resilient landscapes, and a sustainable future is grounded in a strong connection to this region and its communities.

Vote Deb Mair – For the Lake, the Land and the people

0274 734 835
w.maher@xtra.co.nz
Thames-Coromandel

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Thames-Coromandel General Constituency area.

As a longtime resident of this region, I am seeking re-election to continue work on rates control, environmental management, public transport and flood protection and drainage. As your Councilor, I will ensure we deliver accountable transparent decision making and deliver practical value to our rate payers.

It’s time to cut costs, such as the $16.9 million spent annually on consultants or the $2.5 million prior year surplus not returned to rate payers, but withheld for future use on a possible project?

I believe we need to focus on in-house expertise and local community knowledge.

Our Peninsula environment, both on land and sea is our greatest asset, so we must prioritise its future protection. This is why I have championed initiatives to improve our water quality, enhance bio-diversity and bio-security.

I believe economic, social and cultural values can all be balanced to enhance our unique diverse part of the Waikato.

027 535 8327
roxatlarge@hotmail.com
Thames-Coromandel

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Thames-Coromandel General Constituency area.

Kia ora koutou. I’m standing for Waikato Regional Council to represent Thames-Coromandel with a focus on the environment that sustains our way of life and economy, including aquaculture, farming, tourism, and forestry.

I have proudly lived and worked here for 25 years, and bring extensive knowledge of the issues landowners face, our communities and environment, strong knowledge of Council’s roles in catchment and river management, flood protection, biodiversity and biosecurity, and future growth and development planning. I’m committed to genuine partnership with tangata whenua, and to supporting the many community and Iwi groups already working hard to protect our harbours, rivers, and forests. My priorities include genuine collaboration with community, environmental and economic resilience, and improving water quality and climate resilience. Through collaboration, transparent decision-making, and practical solutions that balance environmental care with economic needs, I will advocate for a thriving, resilient Thames-Coromandel where people and nature flourish together.

028 415 9119
algralindsay@gmail.com
Waihou

My principal place of residence is in the Waihou General Constituency area.

Clean water, flood banks, aqueducts, and wastewater treatment — the regional challenges need practical solutions. I bring to the table a childhood of farmwork, a decade of electrical work, and studies across multiple scientific disciplines at two universities. Political arts taught me the importance of personal connection — to lead by example for my dozen nieces and nephews, and to knock on your door so you’re properly consulted.

I value transparency, so everyone has an equal opportunity to be heard. With strong families and caring communities, we can supercharge regional growth. As someone who lives in the area, I know too well the solutions required. With a proactive, science-based approach focused on what’s possible, a streamlined programme of projects could just give someone their backyard back.

Vote Algra — for a common-sense approach, grounded in experience and committed to a region that works for all of us.

021 0811 5648
cavendishwalt@gmail.com
Waihou

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Waihou General Constituency area.

I’m a dairy farmer from Richmond Downs and proud to live and work in the Waihou Constituency. I’m standing for Waikato Regional Council because rural communities like ours are being overlooked by Wellington-style bureaucracy and costly, top-down policies that don’t reflect the realities on the ground.

If elected, I will push back against wasteful spending, unworkable environmental rules, and race-based governance. I believe in practical, common-sense solutions that protect our land and water while supporting the people who care for them.

I will focus on ensuring fairer rates, smarter infrastructure investment, and a council that listens to the needs of rural families and small businesses. My goal is to bring transparency and accountability to decision-making, with every ratepayer’s dollar treated with respect.

Local voices matter, and I will be a strong voice for Waihou and rural Waikato.

021 752 423
Robert.cookson1@gmail.com
Waihou

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Waihou General Constituency area.

As a local third-generation dairy farmer, it’s been my honor to serve as your voice as a Waihou councillor for the last three years. I am seeking re-election, as I believe in accountability, transparent decision-making, and delivering real value for the community. I advocate for returning council surpluses back to rate payers, not into feel-good vanity projects. It's time to reform how our council operates, especially with $16.9 million annually spent on consultants. Prioritising the cost-effective services of public transport, flood protection drainage, and environmental management. Furthermore, it shouldn’t cost up to $2.68 in overheads to manage $1 of council spending. This is not sustainable. As a local, I am passionate about democratic decision-making. I also believe in our communities preserving vibrancy and prosperity for the region. I stand for keeping communities strong with cost-effective services and rates under control.

Vote Robert Cookson

027 481 5648
Jenholm@xtra.co.nz
Waihou

My principal place of residence is in the Waihou General Constituency area.

Local Government isn’t “sexy” nor is it a “Razz-matzah” role but it affects everyone in our pockets

Rate rises cannot continue. Rates add to inflation, add to our cost-of-living woes. They and the Regional Council processes make the cost of doing business and simply living, prohibitive

Our focus has to be on
Efficiency and reducing costs, thus rates
Local Government reform – with checks and balances
Push back unfettered Central Government’s unfunded duties being charged to Rate payers
RMA reform must give equal weighting to Social, Environment and Economics
Drainage and Flood Protection and durable infrastructure
Scientific Environmental Protection
Equitable roll out of PC1, with flexibility of land use
Exceptional Governance
Strong accountability
A Waikato “Inc.” vision
As a Farming leader, farming in Waihou and with a grown Family, I have the time and proven ability to contribute and make a difference

No more the same, Let’s make a difference!!

022 060 8669
Voices4events@gmail.com
Waihou

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Waihou General Constituency area.

As your representative on council, I hope to enhance public engagement in future decisions facing our region. We deserve leadership that listens, learns, and leads with integrity. A communications professional, I believe my public speaking and writing skills will enable me to create a greater sense of dialogue within the community. Many of you know me as your local quiz host, author, actor, Theatre NZ adjudicator, and President of the Matamata Dramatic Society. I’m not just a candidate, I’m also your neighbour, your advocate, and your friend.

I am passionate about the environment. Many local businesses and farmers are investing in a more sustainable future. I planted over 100 native trees on my rural property to improve bird and insect populations. We can do more. With greater education and support at regional level, we can foster a community that works collectively to create a Waikato we are all proud of.

My principal place of residence is in the Waikato General Constituency area.

Hello Everyone,

First off, I love the Waikato, I reside in the Waikato constituency.

With Central Government hinting for more autonomy of Regional Council it’s time to change track. Public transport does a fantastic job, My kids thought the bus ride to Fieldays was the best part of the Fieldays! Lol

We should be tightening our belts to weather the storm for a brighter future.

Yet, we need to invest more in capital investment fund earning assets, that reduce your rates!

We are lucky we haven't had the natural disasters of the Tasman Region or Hawkes Bay, currently only $6 million is allocated to disaster fund, this needs to be higher to support those affected.

*keep Waikato River clean.

*No to unnecessary spending.

*RMA changes by Central Government, we must account for these changes.

*Resist new climate action policies/taxes.

*Let’s keep farmers farming, limit policy change that interferes with that.

027 496 1870
gary.mcguire@xtra.co.nz
Waikato

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Waikato General Constituency area.

Times are tough. If you’re tightening your belt, so should Waikato Regional Council. That’s why I’m standing with the Rates Control Team — committed to driving efficiencies, cutting waste, and controlling costs.

Rates Control Team fought to return a $2.5 million surplus to ratepayers, blocked only by a casting vote. If elected, we’ll keep working to return surpluses through rates reductions.

Last year, Council spent $16.9 million on consultants. It’s time to slash this unnecessary cost.

Speaking personally, I have concerns about Plan Change 1 in its current form. It threatens livelihoods without delivering practical environmental results.

Our team also opposes the creeping co-governance of freshwater. Water must be managed for the benefit of all New Zealanders.

As a 4th generation resident of the Waikato district, I am here to listen to your concerns, and to bring about meaningful change.

Vote Gary McGuire — Rates Control Team  www.ratescontrolteam.co.nz

0275 943 895
newcastleherefords@xtra.co.nz
Waikato

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Waikato General Constituency area.

My commitment is to represent your interests, not those of the council. I consistently advocate for fairness and integrity, and I am prepared to ask challenging questions and hold people accountable.

As a first-term Regional Councillor, I bring leadership, experience, and accountability, building upon 15 years of service as a Waikato District Councillor.

I spearheaded the re-establishment of the River and Drainage Committees and chair the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee, ensuring landowners have a direct voice in Council. Responding to ratepayer concerns, I successfully opposed the initial proposal to shift Public Transport rating from District to Regional Council, resulting in fairer and more cost-effective transport rates.

Work remains to reduce rate increases and improve efficiencies. I am a farmer in Te Kowhai, a Justice of the Peace, with extensive council experience and strong community support.

I seek your continued support, as unprecedented legislative changes will make experience vital for success.

0274 942 515
storeyforwrc@gmail.com
Waikato

My principal place of residence is in the Waikato General Constituency area.

As your current Waikato Regional Council Chair, I’ve delivered collaborative, effective leadership that puts communities first. Over the past three years, I’ve championed sustainable progress, advancing critical infrastructure, empowering rural communities, safeguarding natural resources, and working to keep rates fair.

I’ve worked alongside farmers and residents to ensure your voices shape our future. I’ve improved public transport, including better bus and Te Huia train services so residents can access jobs, education, and social connections, and secured significant government investment in vital flood management projects (four in our constituency) to boost resilience to extreme weather.

My focus remains on building strong, connected communities, supporting a sustainable future for agriculture, and protecting our environment for future generations.

A vote for me is one for proven leadership, a strong, trusted voice, and a Waikato where you feel supported and proud to call home.

For more information or to get in touch, visit www.pamelastorey.co.nz

027 446 7610
thegrafboys@xtra.co.nz
Waipā-King Country

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is not in the Waipa-King Country General Constituency area.

Over the last seven years Waikato Regional Council has increased its number of staff by over 100. Rates continue to skyrocket, and yet it seems harder to get things done.

Regional councils are complicating the delivery of essential services, and enabling divisive co-governance legislation. They are top-heavy bureaucracies that are past their use-by-date.

During this last term I voted against the endless rates increases we’ve all endured. Other councillors share this concern too, and so we’ve formed the Rates Control Team, a group of candidates dedicated to keeping your rates below the CPI.

We’re also concerned about the ever-increasing creep of co-governance in freshwater legislation. I stand for one governance for all, not a divisive, apartheid regime.

A vote for me is a vote for an inclusive Waikato, a vote to support primary producers, to oppose co-governance, and to get your rates down.

www.ratescontrolteam.co.nz

021 943 055
Knees.bones@gmail.com
Waipā-King Country

Independent

My principal place of residence is in the Waipa-King Country General Constituency area.

A 4th generation Waikato farmer and experienced Councillor, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the diverse roles and responsibilities the Regional Council. I offer a strategic and considered approach to the challenges faced by our region, ensuring we are well placed to maximise opportunities, whilst ensuring our natural resources are managed in a way that ensures future generations can enjoy freshwater, a healthy environment and economic prosperity.

The proposed legislative reforms will only deliver results if local knowledge is factored into decision making. I bring an experienced voice to the table to ensure future reform best serves the Waikato.

Council policies must be fit for purpose and add value. Our responses to challenging issues such climate change, natural resource allocation and public transport require a well informed and practical approach that is focused on sustainable outcomes. Serving the Waipa-King country is a privilege. I respectfully seek your continued support. 

027 273 4903
garry.reymer@gmail.com
Waipā-King Country

Rates Control Team

My principal place of residence is in the Waipa-King Country General Constituency area.

I am standing for the Waikato Regional Council because I am committed to enhancing council efficiency and ensuring a focus on core responsibilities.

It is essential that we prioritise cost-effective flood protection, drainage, environmental management, and improvements to public transport services. Currently, for every $1 the council spends on services, the bureaucracy adds more dollars in cost—at unsustainable ratios.

As a businessman and farmer with strong roots in the community, I am passionate about the wellbeing and prosperity of the wonderful Waipa.

That’s why I’m concerned about the continuing growth of bureaucracy. The council’s steady increase in staff numbers, which rose by 5% last year and 30% since 2015, along with consultant expenditures reaching $16.9 million, cannot continue unchecked.

As a member of the Rates Control Team, I will work to ensure that the Waikato Regional Council remains effective, affordable, efficient, and consistently delivers value for money to ratepayers.

027 571 6206
liz@grasslandz.co.nz
Waipā-King Country

My principal place of residence is in the Waipa-King Country General Constituency area.

Vote for bold leadership, smart investment and commitment to serving you. I have spent a decade representing Waipa and served as Waipa Deputy Mayor for six years. If elected, I have several key priorities: addressing the overlap between district and regional councils, improving public transport in our towns, advocating strongly for farmers regarding PC1 and keeping rate increases under control.

Andrew and I are proud Ohaupo dairy farmers, manage Lake Karāpiro Domain and are deeply connected to multiple community groups. 100% commitment – I always go above and beyond with integrity, experience and the ability to connect strongly with people. I will be visible and approachable right across Waipa/King Country.

Let’s get better at working across boundaries, enhance and protect local lakes, while always supporting rural and urban communities.

With 30+ years of business experience, I aim to keep Waikato on track as the economic powerhouse of NZ.