The nomination period has ended.
A big mihi/acknowledgement to all our candidates who have stepped up to stand for Whakatāne District council - it takes heart to put yourself forward for your community.
See who is standing for Whakatāne District - below are the candidates in the running to lead where they live.
Important note: All data is subject to change until the nominations are approved by the Electoral Officer. Official results from Election Services are due on Wednesday, 6 August.
Jump to a section:
- Mayor
- Councillor - Whakatāne-Ōhope Ward
- Councillor - Te Urewera General Ward
- Councillor - Rangitāiki General Ward
- Councillor - Rangitāiki Māori Ward
- Councillor - Kapu te rangi Māori Ward
- Councillor - Toi ki Uta Māori Ward
- Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Tāneatua Community Board
- Rangitāiki Community Board
- Murupara Community Board - Murupara Subdivision
- Murupara Community Board - Galatea Waiohau Subdivision
- Murupara Community Board - Te Urewera Subdivision
Meet the candidates.
Mayor - One required
Mark INMAN
Standing for Mayor
- Read Mark INMAN's Candidate Profile Statement
Raised in the Eastern Bay, shaped by international experience and deeply connected to Whakatāne, I’ve dedicated my life to building stronger, more vibrant communities. With a background in education and leadership roles my journey includes developing youth and sports programmes in Saudi Arabia to managing one of New Zealand’s busiest holiday parks at Ōhope Beach TOP 10. Currently, as the acting General Manager at BOP Youth Development Trust, I lead seven vital programmes supporting rangatahi across the region.
For the past nine years, I’ve proudly served on the Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board, ensuring local voices are heard and acted upon. Now, I'm running for Mayor because I believe in community-first leadership. My focus will be on youth development, sustainability, smart growth, and transparency in local governance.This campaign is not about politics, it’s about people, purpose, and working together to create a Whakatāne we can all be proud of.
www.votemarkinman.co.nzI whakatipua ahau ki Te Rāwhiti o Te Waiariki, ā, he hononga hōhonu tōku ki a Whakatāne.
He nui aku wheako ki te ao, i te mātauranga me ngā hākinakina taiohi i Saudi Arabia me Aotearoa.
He tangata ngākau nui ahau ki te hanga i tētahi hāpori kaha, oranga hoki.Kua noho ahau hei Kaiwhakahaere Matua i Te Papa Hararei TOP 10 i Ōhope, ā, ināianei ko ahau te Kaiwhakahaere Matua o te Bay of Plenty Youth Development Trust.
Kua noho hoki ahau ki te Poari Hapori o Whakatāne–Ōhope mō ngā tau e iwa.
E whakapono ana ahau ki te kaiārahi i ahu mai i te hapori, te whakawhanaketanga rangatahi, te manawaroa, te tipu atamai, me te māramatanga ki te mana ā-rohe.
Ehara tēnei i te kaupapa tōrangapū – engari mō te tangata, te kaupapa, me te mahi tahi ki te hanga i tētahi Whakatāne ka whakahīhī ai tātou katoa.
Philip JACOBS
Standing for Mayor
- Read Philip JACOBS's Candidate Profile Statement
I am a long-standing restaurant owner and accountant who attended Whakatāne High School.
I am standing for mayor because your council finances are out of control and need urgent attention.
With two university degrees, my background is in banking, funds management, insurance, pulp and paper, online retailing and hospitality, working at senior levels across Australia and New Zealand and focusing on management, accounting and information systems.My passion is found in the leadership and management of organisations, focusing on performance and finances, finding the good and the bad, pinpointing the concerns needing attention.
Under my leadership of your newly elected council, the Whakatāne District Council will balance its budget, control debt and reduce staff, spending and rates increases.
If you want a council that manages its projects and finances well, is respected for its transparency and accountability, then you must vote for change on council.
Vote Philip Jacobs for mayor.
Wilson JAMES
Standing for Mayor
- Read Wilson JAMES's Candidate Profile Statement
Being part of our diverse community is a privilege and would be an honour to serve as your Mayor, like anything, to experience and enjoy, I like to give back. I am a firm believer that every generation must leave things better for future generations - towns, services, amenities and lifestyles all need continual improvement.
Current WDC Councillor for Rangitaiki Ward, Chair of Living Together Committee. Previously, Chair Awakeri School BOT (9 yrs) Deputy Chair BOP Ag - ITO, Inaugural Chair Awakeri Events Centre, Fonterra Shareholders Councillor, past President EBOP Justice of the Peace Association. Plains Water Advisory Board to name a few gives me practical experience in effective functional organisations. The Whakatane District needs efficiency, realistic optimism and great leadership to capture the huge potential gains our local industries are delivering to enable our great district to prosper in the future.
Andrew ILES
Standing for Mayor
- Read Andrew ILES's Candidate Profile Statement
Kia ora, my name is Andrew Iles, a retired dairy farmer and local business owner having resided in Waimana for the past forty-two years.
Since serving the District diligently as a Councillor and Deputy Mayor, I am now seeking the Mayoralty of the Whakatane District.
My current community involvements include: as a trustee for the Disability Resource Centre, Chair of Waka Eastern Bay Community Transport and President of Taneatua Lions. I continue to actively endeavour to improve services for our communities and contribute to long term plan and Public consultations.
My Mayoral focus is clear; infrastructure first - prioritising essential services. I am concerned with unsustainable rate increases, advocating for affordability now. I offer strong leadership for a strong Council, committed to a fair and equitable system across our whole District while also providing an open door policy and strong community visibility.
I respectfully ask for your vote in 2025.
Victor LUCA
Standing for Mayor
- Read Victor LUCA's Candidate Profile Statement
I’m the current Mayor of Whakatāne and was born, raised and schooled here. As the only candidate to have actually been the Mayor I have the experience and understanding of our community and its challenges.
Since earning a Doctorate in Chemistry in 1988 I have had a 30 year career as a scientist and research leader in prestigious international institutions. This has made me a critical thinker, an environment and infrastructure expert and a good decision maker; decisions based on facts, evidence, good judgement and consensus. I represent strong and honest leadership and responsible financial management. My word is my bond. I’m focused on delivering critical infrastructure in a cost-effective manner so that rate payers get maximum value for money. I will strive for a greater focus on non-rates revenue generation in order to keep downward pressure on rates so that we get what we need.
More info: www.votevictorluca.com
Nandor TANCZOS
Standing for Mayor
- Read Nandor TANCZOS's Candidate Profile Statement
Let's get our district humming. We live in an extraordinary place, full of amazing people and resilient communities. I'm standing for mayor because we also deserve strong and experienced political leadership. We need a mayor who is an energetic advocate and champion for the district, able to attract investment and opportunity into the local economy.
I bring over 25 years of experience in governance, including 18 years as a Member of Parliament and District Councillor. I co-founded two successful companies and have a Post Graduate Diploma in Management and Sustainability. I am a chartered member of the Institute of Directors and an accredited RMA commissioner and chair. I have studied Te Reo Māori to level 5 and work closely with a number of hāpu and iwi, and with a range of communities across the district. My priorities are: stronger collaboration, intergenerational thinking, a more accessible council, and sound financial governance.
Councillor - Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward - Four required
Malcolm WHITAKER
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward
- Read Malcolm WHITAKER's Candidate Profile Statement
Ki Ora, Hi, I'm Malcolm Whitaker. Resided in Ohope, 43 years. Standing for a councillor in the Whakatane Ward. Why? Rates; should be; around 7.8% yearly. By reducing unnecessary staff, trimming costs. Except for: essentials; infrastructure, roads, footpaths, lighting, security, water services, parks and gardens. I spent twelve years as a regional councillor, BOPRC ten years on Whakatane Kiwi Trust. Three as chairman. Interest: environment, clean healthy waterways and ocean. Regularly; pick up waste off beach. Love cycling, regular trips to Sunday market. Love the atmosphere. Play music at 'Open Mics' Mata and 'Sound Project' passionate gardener. Wrote gardening articles for Beacon 18 months inspiring people to grow their own food. I'm very community minded.
'You vote for me' shall not be wasted'
Dave STEWART
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward
- Read Dave STEWART's Candidate Profile Statement
Everything about politics is about choices and I want to offer Whakatāne voters a clear choice.
While some push for supporting Wellington over Whakatāne, I think Government has too much to say in local politics and I offer a choice to push back on that.
Why should ratepayers wear the bill for central government's decrees and projects?
There are alternatives to selling the municipal assets that ratepayers own so that someone can operate them on a 'for-profit' agenda.
Decades of neglect is staring us in the face.
That's not acceptable to any of us.
There are alternatives, and they require a different approach.Let's have courage. Vision. Long-term thinking. A mayor and councillors who are eager to work together for all of us - motivated not just by managing the now, but by building a strong foundation for the future.
Carolyn Louise HAMILL
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward
- Read Carolyn Louise HAMILL's Candidate Profile Statement
I will bring a fresh, positive, and practical perspective to the role of Councillor. I want to see the Whakatāne District be a vibrant and affordable place for our families and businesses to thrive.
I am Chair of the Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board and have served nine years on this Board; three years on the National Community Board Executive Committee; and three years as an accredited Hearings Commissioner – all providing solid experience and insight with Local Government. I work part-time as a local veterinarian and am involved in numerous community organisations, sports clubs, cycling groups, conservation and in waste minimisation initiatives.
Big issues facing our District include rates affordability, infrastructure upgrades, climate resilience, and sustainable growth and tourism. We need pragmatic, future-focused decisions that work within a tight budget to ensure a strong, resilient District.
I have the skills, passion and integrity to make a difference.
Julie Claire JUKES
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward
- Read Julie Claire JUKES's Candidate Profile Statement
For the past twelve years as your Council representative, it's been a privilege to serve our community on the Council and I'm asking for your continued support and vote.
My commitment goes beyond meetings; it's about being an informed and dedicated voice for every resident. Drawing on my Council experience and professional background as a Chartered Accountant and a successful Retail Business Owner, I've gained valuable insights and practical knowledge to contribute to responsible growth and maintaining our infrastructure assets.
I believe in practical solutions, while addressing key issues, including future retirement options and a second bridge into Whakatane. I will continue to focus on Council spending, transparency and rates affordability.
My heart is in our region. I'm passionate about a future where our community continues to flourish, growing stronger with every shared step forward. With your vote, I'm ready to keep working tirelessly for the place we all love.
Chris BARNARD
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward
- Read Chris BARNARD's Candidate Profile Statement
As founder and chair of Have a Heart Charitable Trust, I’ve dedicated many years to supporting Whakatāne families and fostering a spirit of true neighbourliness. I believe in practical, community-led solutions that protect our most vulnerable, strengthen connections, and build genuine social transformation. In a time of rising living costs and economic uncertainty, I stand for a season of consolidation — putting people before projects and neighbours before numbers. My focus is on safeguarding essential services, exercising careful spending, and empowering strong, resilient communities where every person can thrive. I am deeply committed to transparent decision-making, open dialogue, and ensuring every voice is heard and valued. Together, we can build a Whakatāne that stands out for its heart — a place where everyone feels seen, supported, and able to participate in shaping our shared future, today and for generations to come.
Brendan HORAN
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward
- Read Brendan HORAN's Candidate Profile Statement
I'm standing because our community deserves better. Born here, I attended St Joseph's and Whakatāne High, then on to universities in Canada, Australia and New Zealand. I've spent most of my life helping people, starting at Whakatāne Hospital, lifeguarding, television weatherman, MP, and on the world stage.
Whakatane is where my heart is, my connection here runs deep, and my commitment is real, but, this election isn't about me, it's about you; Your whānau, your business, your future. I know times are tough, and rising rates are hurting households and businesses'. I'm committed to affordable rates, cutting unnecessary council spending, finding smart alternative income sources, and ensuring you money is used where it matters most, on services, infrastructure, and community wellbeing.
I bring strong local roots, proven leadership, and a focus on results. I'm not here for politics, I'm here for Whakatāne. I'd be honored to earn your vote.
Lesley IMMINK
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope General Ward
- Read Lesley IMMINK's Candidate Profile Statement
I am married with adult children and of European and Māori descent. I have a proven record of corporate leadership and performance in the tourism and education sectors, with skills in strategic business planning, marketing and organizational change. I've been a Whakatane-Ohope ward councillor since 2019, currently serving as Deputy Mayor. As Deputy Mayor I bring strong relationships, experienced understanding of how local government works and continuity to the council. As your representative I commit to building a community that is economically and culturally strong, vibrant and diverse. Thank you for your vote as your Whakatāne-Ohope ward councillor.
Councillor - Te Urewera General Ward - One required
- Andrew Iles
Councillor - Rangitāiki General Ward - Two required
- Gavin Dennis
- Wilson James
Councillor - Rangitāiki Māori Ward - One required
Tu O'BRIEN
Standing for Rangitāiki Māori Ward
- Read Tu O'BRIEN's Candidate Profile Statement
Ko Tuwhakairiora O'Brien tōku ingoa (Tu). It has been a privilege to serve as the Māori ward councillor for the Rangitāiki over the past 2 1/2 years, I seek the honour to continue this journey, with a deep commitment to advocate for our people. My approach is grounded, focused on achieving meaningful results for the benefit of our community. Residing in Whakatane, I actively participate in hapu, iwi and marae events, and am a dedicated Kaitiaki Taiao. I strive to ensure that Māori voices are well-represented in council decisions, uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and protect the integrity of our Māori seats. I am committed to keeping rates fair and aligning council actions with our shared values. In these uncertain times, we must stand firm in the legacy of our tīpuna. I humble ask for your support to carry forward this kaupapa, for our generations to come.
Rihi VERCOE
Standing for Rangitāiki Māori Ward
- Read Rihi VERCOE's Candidate Profile Statement
'Kia mau ki tō Ukaipō' Know your Roots
Tēnā tātou katoa o te Rangitaiki haukāinga.
I am, again, contesting Council’s Rangitaiki Māori Ward, of which, I was 'Ringa Raupā' (very active) in its establishment.
I have been politically active in Local Government since Whakatāne County Council days, when I‘d translate my Dad’s Council Letters from English to Māori, then, he’d dictate his reply in Te Reo Māori - our home language - that I’d write in English.
I’m passionately experienced in Kaupapa Māori Communal-minded Team-Work, including lifting strugglers 'out of the red to manageable profitability.'
My focus is on building meaningful relationships with Rangitaiki constituents to achieve durable caring and sharing - Tātau Tātau - outcomes, with Rates Affordability uppermost.
Please vote for me so, together, we will reinforce leaving an honourable legacy for our Mokopuna.
Kia tau ko ngā manaakitanga a to Tātau Kaihanganui. Mauri Tū, Mauri Ora.
Councillor - Kapu te rangi Māori Ward - One required
Toni Boynton
Standing for Kāpū-te-rangi Māori Ward
- Read Toni Boynton's Candidate Profile Statement
(Tuhoe, Ngāti Awa, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Kahu)
I stand upon Kāpūterangi, the dwelling place of my ancestor Toi-kairākau! Toi – the prestige, Toi – the word, Toi – the land! I look to the descendants of Awanuiārangi, to Ngāti Hokopū and Ngāi Taiwhakaea by the sea, Ngāti Warahoe inland!
It would be a privilege to serve a 2nd term as Māori Ward Councillor. I have worked to ensure our Te Ao Māori view and perspectives are part of Council decision-making, increased cultural competency in Council, and strengthened Iwi, hapū, hāpori Māori engagement, improved access for Māori to Council services, giving mana to Te Tiriti.
I will ensure collaboration with our Iwi, hapū for housing, infrastructure and economic development, to reestablish long-term sustainability, keeping all communities safe and thriving.
I have experience, networks, vision and drive to represent you, and all your whānau across our rohe. Vote Yes to Maori Wards.
Tū ana au ki te take o Kāpūterangi te nōhanga o a Toi-te-huatahi. Ka ahu taku titiro whakararo ki ngā uri o Awanuiārangi, ko Ngāti Hokopū, Ngāi Taiwhakaea ki tai, ko Ngāti Warahoe ki uta!
I whakapau kaha ahau kia uru ngā tirohanga me ngā whakaaro o Te Ao Māori ki ngā whakataunga a te Kaunihera, kia kaha hoki te tūhonohono atu ki ngā iwi, me ōna karangaranga maha, ōtira ki te hāpori Māori whānui. Kei te kaha te hiahia o te Māori kia uru mai ki te Kaunihera, ki te whakamana i Te Tiriti.
Mā te mahi ngātahi ki ngā iwi, hapū, ki te whakatū whare, ki te whakawhanake i te ōhanga. Koira te oranga nui.
Kei te hīkaka taku ngākau mo tēnei tau. Pōti Ae! Mo ngā wāri Māori.
Hiria Wallace
Standing for Kāpū-te-rangi Māori Ward
- Read Hiria Wallace's Candidate Profile Statement
Kia ora. I'm of Tūhoe and Ngāti-Awa descent, raised on my marae in Rūatoki, immersed in te reo and tikanga. I know the importance of working together towards a common goal. I have lived in Whakatāne for 31 years. My community experience includes over 30 years in education in the Bay of Plenty and across Aotearoa. My governance skills have developed as a long serving trustee of Tātaiwhetu Trust and Tuinoa Organic Dairy Farms.
As a mother and grandmother, I'm passionate about the well-being of families, living and growing in a safe community. I'm equally committed to te taiao, our natural environment and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Lastly, in this economic landscape careful spending and rates affordability are important issues.
Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui.
Councillor - Toi ki Uta Māori Ward - One required
Glenn MCGAHAN
Standing for Toi ki Uta Māori Ward
- Read Glenn MCGAHAN's Candidate Profile Statement
Ko te werawera o tō rae, me ngā kopa o ō ringa, ka hiki ake i te whānau, te hapū me te iwi.
By the sweat of your brow and the calluses of your hands will the whānau, the hapū, and the iwi be lifted up.
I believe in having a strong, connected whanau, which naturally builds relationships with hapu. It is this connectedness with each other and our environment that gives strength to communities. I am driven to see equity in a sustainable strategy for rates, being transparent on the impacts of RMA reforms, and the delivery of water management. I have over 25 years of leadership and governance experience with an extensive background in business, advertising and marketing, and strategic development. I hold a Diploma in Business - Marketing from the University of Auckland and am currently on the Boards of Tuhoe Fisheries Quota Ltd and Sport BOP.
Jesse Wayne MORGAN-RANUI
Standing for Toi ki Uta Māori Ward
- Read Jesse Wayne MORGAN-RANUI's Candidate Profile Statement
Ko Hikurangi te Maunga, Ko Rangitaiki te Awa, Ko Ngati Haka Patuheuheu te Hapu, Ko Tama Ki Hikurangi te Whare, Ko Te Hina te tangata, Ko Tuhoe te Iwi.
Kia ora tatou - my name is Jesse Wayne Morgan-Ranui. I am from Waiohau but reside in Murupara. I have concerns about the state and welfare of our people. So have decided to stand for the Toi Ki Uta Maori Ward Councillor. I believe I have what it takes to reinforce Council on your behalf all our concerns on Council taxes, Council borrowings, spendings and other things that impact our water infrastructure, sewage, services, employment etc. I think that with our distance from Whakatane we are often forgotten and neglected.
Naku noa Jesse Wayne Morgan-Ranui.
Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board - Six required
Linda BONNE
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Linda BONNE's Candidate Profile Statement
As an active and passionate member of our community, alongside secondary school teaching and involvement in many voluntary organisations, I am seeking your support for re-election to the Whakatāne Ōhope Community Board. As WŌCB Deputy Chair, over the past term, I've worked tirelessly to ensure our voices are heard, advocating for local issues that matter most, such as enhancing community facilities, protecting our environment, and supporting local organisations and individuals to achieve their goals. With a deep understanding of our unique needs, I remain committed to fostering collaboration between residents and local government.
I believe in transparency, effective communication, and making decisions that reflect our community's values. Together, we can continue to make Whakatāne and Ōhope an even better place to live, work, and thrive. I would be honoured to have the opportunity to continue serving you and represent our shared interest. Thank you for your ongoing trust and support.
Rosemary Jan SLOMAN
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Rosemary Jan SLOMAN's Candidate Profile Statement
After forty years of putting my hand up and heart into the communities of the Eastern Bay, I am keen to serve as an elected member of the Whakatane Ohope Community Board.
My career spans hospitality, education, health, leadership in local retail and not-for-profit organisations. I have governance experience in international education and health and a very strong commitment to volunteering.
An Independent Validated Celebrant, I support families at crucial moments in their lives and am committed to ongoing professional development in this work.
My voluntary work includes: Justice of the Peace with extra responsibility as Ministerial Educator in the EBOP Region; Reviewing funding grants as a member of Mataatua COGS Area Committee; Contributing member of the Whakaari Memorial Steering Committee to realise the establishment of a permanent place of reflection and remembrance for our community; Advocate for vulnerable seniors; Current trustee of two local NFP Trusts.
Sue WHALE
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Sue WHALE's Candidate Profile Statement
I, Sue (Susanne) Whale have lived and worked in New Zealand since 1978. From 1994 I worked as an art teacher at Trident High School, Rangatahi College, Kawerau College and Whakatāne High School (2001-2023). From 2010 I developed the successful International Student business at Whakatāne High School. In 1994 I joined the Whakatāne District Community Arts Council Inc, known as Arts Whakatāne, currently serving as chair/president in my second term. We have organised and co-organised events such as the Molly Morpeth Canaday Award, the Summer Arts Festival and the Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne Festival over many years. I am a founding member of Zonta Whakatāne (2019), an organisation which supports girls and women. I am serving on the board of the Taketake museum, the WDC Global Cities Committee and the CCS Committee. I enjoy organising and participating in community events and initiatives.
Sasha Victoria CESSFORD
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Sasha Victoria CESSFORD's Candidate Profile Statement
I’ve lived in Whakatāne for many years and am deeply invested in the well-being of our people and place. As a long-time healthcare practitioner, I’ve worked closely with individuals across all ages and walks of life, which has given me insight into the everyday challenges and strengths of our community. I’ve also served as a community admin for over five years, helping to create safe, inclusive spaces for discussion and support. My approach is practical, people-focused, and grounded in fairness. I care about good communication, transparency in local decision-making, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to be heard, especially those often overlooked. I aspire to strengthen the connections between residents and Council and help grow a thriving, resilient, and future-focused Whakatāne. I bring both experience and heart to this role, with a commitment to listening, learning, and acting in the best interests of our whole community.
Tim PROOT
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Tim PROOT's Candidate Profile Statement
I imagine a world where unstoppable people build thriving communities we all want to belong to. Where everything clicks. Where you move through life feeling confident and completely yourself. Not boxed in. Not burned out. But boldly alive.
I enjoy creating spaces where people plug into that kind of flow — through the tools I build, the businesses I help, and the communities I support.
I’m running to lead where I live, here in Whakatāne — as a community board member — to use my skills so we can level up work, play, life. I’m not here to play status games. I’m here to help things move and improve — for everyone.
Christopher HOWARD
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Christopher HOWARD's Candidate Profile Statement
I’ve lived in Whakatane all my life (58 yrs). I’m very passionate about our wonderful district. I’m seeking re-election because of that passion and commitment. I would like to continue to be a strong voice for rate payers. Those people who know me know I am not afraid to ask tough questions and hold people to account ensuring that if they promise to do something they do what they say or at least give a rational based reason why it wasn't or can't be done. With vast experience as a community board member, I am seeking to continue in that role and continue the good work achieved by the current board members. We are in a time where costs are out pacing incomes and that is dramatically affecting people's way of life. Our district's aging population is an area where this is very evident. Thank you for your continued support.
Douglas MCLEAN
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Douglas MCLEAN's Candidate Profile Statement
As a former School Principal (39 years) and current Community Board member I have a track record of effective governance and a genuine understanding of the challenges facing our district. I am a strong advocate for common-sense decision making and responsible financial management. As a long-time resident and current community board member I am dedicated to serving the people of Whakatane. I understand the importance of listening to residents and believe in transparent, accountable governance. I am committed to making sensible decisions that protect our local lifestyle while planning for a prosperous future.
I believe I am a strong, reliable and ethical voice for Whakatane-Ohope on the Community Board.
Quin KINGI
Standing for Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board
- Read Quin KINGI's Candidate Profile Statement
As a long-term resident of Whakatāne-Ōhope, I am passionate about fostering a thriving, inclusive community that honours Te Ao Māori and our shared values. With extensive experience in community advocacy and youth mentoring, I am committed to authentic partnerships and ensuring the unique identity of our rohe is reflected in our decisions.
Central to my vision is the principle of kaitiakitanga — guardianship and stewardship of our environment and community wellbeing. I will work to protect our beautiful parks, beaches, and resources for future generations, support whānau, and champion local businesses and initiatives. If elected to the Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board, I promise to listen to your voice, encourage open kōrero, and lead with transparency.
Together, let’s build a safer, more resilient, and connected community grounded in manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga, so all can thrive. Vote Quin Kingi for Te Tiriti-led positive change and shared guardianship of our future.
Tāneatua Community Board - Six required
- Vinoop Xaviour
- Talei Bryant
- Shane Page
Rangitāiki Community Board - Six required
Peter FLOWERDAY
Standing for Rangitāiki Community Board
- Read Peter FLOWERDAY's Candidate Profile Statement
Kia ora koutou
I live in Matatā and am committed to doing my part for our community and surrounding area.
I am Chair of the Matatā Residents Association, member of the Matatā Collective Group and sit on the Rangitāiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme Advisory Group.I work closely with Ngāti Rangitihi, maintaining the Matatā Lagoon with pest plant control.
As I complete my first three-year term on the Rangitāiki Community Board, I would like to express my gratitude to my fellow committee members for their valuable support. However, I am not finished, another term is needed to complete ongoing projects.
I am approachable, a good listener, communicator and will voice your concerns.
For these reasons, I am seeking re-election.
Bruce EVANS
Standing for Rangitāiki Community Board
- Read Bruce EVANS's Candidate Profile Statement
I Bruce William Evans grew up on the dairy farm on Putiki Rd. Attended Awakeri Primary then Edgecumbe College. Did an apprenticeship with Jim Marr, when the butcher shop was beside the railway. Did a few years felling trees in Matahina forest and then almost 20 yrs at Tasman Pulp & Paper. Have been married to Wendy for the past 51 yrs. We have two daughters Lisa & Kelly who were also educated at Edgecumbe primary & college.
Have always been community minded, I was associated with the community patrol when it was active. I was a member of the Edgecumbe Volunteer Fire Brigade for almost 15 years.
Storm HALE
Standing for Rangitāiki Community Board
- Read Storm HALE's Candidate Profile Statement
My parents moved to Edgecumbe when I was 2yrs old, my parents built their home in Rata Ave, Edgecumbe. I went to Edgecumbe primary & college. I married the boy next door and had 3 lovely children and built a home in Whakatane, we then brought my homestead down Rata Ave. I worked at tunnicliffe timber for 12yrs then was offered a job as the receptionist by Dr. Dave Jenkins who was the owner at the time. I continued employment there for 35yrs before retiring.
I volunteer to take clients on my own vehicle to Hamilton, Tauranga and Whakatane for health appointments. I am a life member and patron of Netball Whakatane and have been involved for 40yrs, coaching rep teams, Edgecumbe primary & college netball teams. I took up being the president of Netball Whakatane for 10yrs before giving it over. I am now vice president.
Bill CLARK
Standing for Rangitāiki Community Board
- Read Bill CLARK's Candidate Profile Statement
After three terms representing our area at District/ Regional Council level - I'd like to bring the benefits of that experience to the Rangitaiki Community Board.
I have been actively involved in community affairs for many years - President Lions Club, Chair - Edgecumbe Primary BOT, Onepu Park and more.
Rangitaiki is my home - I'd like to continue 'doing my bit' in this great part of the world.
Heemi BROWN
Standing for Rangitāiki Community Board
- Read Heemi BROWN's Candidate Profile Statement
Kia ora koutou Te Teko and Mapou, Awakaponga, Manawahe, Matata, Edgecumbe, Awakeri, Poroporo and surrounding areas.
Working alongside Awakaponga as representative was amazing. I represented Te Teko on the Residents Committee and have learned to about governance.
Priorities were for two bus shelters which were completed by Council and the Iwi of Ngati Awa.
Support for Awakaponga infrastructure and Manawahe support for rural community young people.
Vote for me to help further the Rangitaiki.
Stu MCHARDY
Standing for Rangitāiki Community Board
- Read Stu MCHARDY's Candidate Profile Statement
I'm a lifelong resident of the Rangitāiki area, a local farmer, and married parent of three boys at Edgecumbe Primary School. I also attended that school and experienced the 1987 Edgecumbe earthquake firsthand - an event that, along with recent floods, has shown me the resilience and strength of our community.
Having lived through these challenging events, I understand the difficulties our families and farms face during times of crisis. I'm committed to supporting our community's recovery, wellbeing, and future growth.
I'm standing for the Rangitāiki Community Board to represent the voices of both rural and urban families across the district - from Te Teko to Matatā. My focus is on building strong community connections, supporting our schools and youth, and promoting sustainable, inclusive growth that respects our unique environment, heritage and culture.
Stephanie BONNER
Standing for Rangitāiki Community Board
- Read Stephanie BONNER's Candidate Profile Statement
As a proud Rangitāiki local, I'm passionate about supporting a strong, connected and resilient community. With a background in small business, community wellness and digital communications, I bring practical skills and a fresh solutions focused perspective.
I am approachable, proactive and deeply committed to representing the voices of all who call Rangitaiki home. I believe in local decisions that prioritise people - supporting families, youth, small businesses, infrastructure and the environment.
I'm standing for the board because I care about our future. With your vote I'll work hard to ensure Rangitāiki continues to be a great place to live, work and thrive.
Murupara Community Board - Murupara Subdivision - Three required
- Weku Kereopa
- Irma Prentice
- Karito Paul
Murupara Community Board - Galatea Waiohau Subdivision - Two required
- Alison Silcock
- Jesse Morgan-Ranui
Murupara Community Board - Te Urewera Subdivision - One required
- Mere Honeycombe