Meet the Candidates

I was bought up in an era where family & local community was the base we built on. We could survive on a single income knowing that our children would find work and own a home. Our generation have let our moral and ethical values slip to the point where our future generations are unsure of their identity and the future. Globalisation has destroyed our local communities. We need to realign our families and local councils to reflect localisation as the future. People like myself need to take a stand against waste and fancy things we can't afford and don't need. We need to rebuild our underground infrastructure and create a better future. I need support from people who understand what needs to be done for our community.

South Taranaki is a thriving district and it's vital we keep that momentum going. Over the past six years, I've had the honour of serving as your leader, and I am asking for your continued support as I seek to represent you for another three.

Local government isn't without its challenges. We must continually find ways to grow our district in ways that are affordable and sustainable. Councils, like the communities they serve, are facing constant cost increases, making it harder to keep rates down (which certainly must do) while still growing and maintaining the services we all rely on.

Despite these pressures, the past three have seen us deliver some significant projects that have genuinely improved our district - with several more projects well under way to completion.

South Taranaki is a fantastic place to live, work and play - together, we can certainly make it even better.

Ko Leanne Horo tēnei, he mokopuna nō Taranaki Mounga - Taranaki, Ngāruahine, Te Ātaiwa me Ngāti Maru.

I'm honoured to stand again for Te Kūrae Māori Ward, bringing governance experience, community connection, and a deep commitment to whānau, whenua and taiao.

I have served on Boards of Trustees, pa committees, sports and community groups, and held Council appointments including the Environment and Hearings Committee and the District Review Committee.

I'm proud of the work that is being developed alongside our four Iwi - supporting whānau, hapū and iwi aspirations.

I currently serve as Trustee on several iwi and Māori boards, both locally and nationally.

I'm driven by a desire to leave a positive legacy. Council decisions affect daily lives - it's vital our voices from rural towns, marae, pā, and whānau are heard.

I remain committed to service, advocating, and uplifting our people and places now and in the future.

Tena Koutou Katoa

Ko Taranaki te Maunga Ko Tangahoe, me Waingongoro nga awa Ko Wharepuni me Aotearoa nga awa. Ko Wharepuni me Aotearoa nga Marae, Ko Ngati Ruanui me Ngaruahine nga iwi Ko Caroline Waiwiri nee Tumoana ahou. Nei ra te mihi ki a tātou.

I'm standing for Councillor for Te Kūrae Māori Ward. It's my intention to commit my time and energy to attend every hui for Council when required and to participate fully representing you all in the Te Kūrae Māori Ward.

My recent background includes being a previous trustee for Te Runanga O Ngati Ruanui Trust representing my hapu of Ngati Tupaia and Chair of Wharepuni Marae and currently BOT of Te Kura Kaupapa o Tamarongo Ki Opunake.

As a candidate for the Te Tai Tonga Māori ward, I am deeply committed to advancing kaupapa Māori through education, rangatahi development, and whānau wellbeing. I believe that investing in meaningful learning pathways—from kōhanga reo to adult education—empowers our people to thrive. Our rangatahi hold the key to future leadership, so I will champion programmes that inspire pride, capability, and opportunity.<br>Whānau wellbeing is the backbone of a strong community. I advocate for inclusive, holistic approaches that bring services closer to the people. The taiao—our natural world—is not just a resource but a living taonga. I support sustainable environmental practices rooted in mātauranga Māori.<br>Improving infrastructure and connectivity is vital for resilience, especially in rural and coastal areas. And I will work towards transparent, collaborative decision-making where mana whenua voices lead the way.

I am a community minded, and strong advocate for local government democracy. I believe in supporting our small towns and the farming community which are the heart and sole of South Taranaki. I believe in championing individual concerns and have been a vocal supporter and advocate for individual residents in my past 6 years as a councillor. I am readily available to the community in which I live. A vote for me is an assurance that you will have a strong voice at the council table. I want to keep rates to a minimum, concentrating on basic services, while still providing the opportunity for growth and diversity to make South Taranaki an interesting and pleasant place to live.

My heart is in South Taranaki, and I’m committed to being a strong, thoughtful voice for our district.

After six terms on the Community Board, including two as Chairperson, I’ve developed a clear understanding of Council processes and a real sense of what matters most to our communities.

I bring a calm, considered approach to decision-making and understand how Council works. I’m practical, politically aware, and always thinking about the bigger picture. I lead by listening, working alongside others, and keeping respect at the centre of everything I do.

My involvement across the community has shown me what’s possible when we work together with shared purpose. I’m committed to contributing from day one and making practical, long-term decisions that support growth, wellbeing, and sustainability for everyone in South Taranaki.

As a 3rd term Councillor for the Eltham Kaponga ward, I strongly advocate for our small rural towns within our District. It is vital that we ensure our small towns receive attention to the areas that need improving, to keep them Alive. Evidently after a few years lobbying, and after consulting and involving our Communities with their aspirations, our small Town Revitalisation plans are about to come to life.

I have a strong governance background with over 20 years' experience serving on Boards of Trustees and numerous Community groups. I am a passionate community minded person, who has shown commitment to succeed in anything I have been involved in. I believe in offering solutions, not problems and working directly with our Communities to achieve our aspirations.

Vote for me for experienced Leadership, Advocacy and Progressive thinking.

By Voting for Me, Small Communities have a Voice through Me!

My name is Tim Taylor, and I'm running as a first-time candidate with a goal to help drive positive and tangible improvements in our community. I want to see progress that builds on our strengths, not quick fixes, but long-term, sustainable and fiscally responsible actions while we protect and preserve what we already have. I believe every decision should be carefully weighed, with sustainable benefits in mind and choices that we can all benefit from.

I've lived in Eltham since 1981 and care about the future of our towns. As a volunteer community patroller, I value public safety and I'm actively involved and committed to keeping our neighbourhoods safe. I care about sustainability, local resilience and I want to help create a future where everyone can thrive.

I'm standing because I believe I can make a difference. I'm ready to represent Eltham and Kaponga with integrity and a practical approach.

I have lived in Patea all of my adult life. I have a business in Patea which I have owned and run for about thirty years. I have three sons two of whom still live in Patea. I am seeking a fifth term on council, the last two having the privilidge of being South Taranakis Deputy Mayor. I am committed to the Patea Ward and the small communities within it. I believe since I have been councillor we have seen marked improvements in our area especially in the Town's of Waverley and Patea. I will continue to advocate for the Patea Ward and keep that momentum going. I am also aware of all the pressures of rising rates and central government legislation and will be proactive in trying to keep rises to an absolute minimum and not lose any of the services that we have.

I am very proud of what we have achieved in the two past terms. New sewage plant at Waiinu Beach. Walkway and improved water supply for Patea and Waverley Town revitalisation in Waverley.

Kiwi statue and bike park in Waverley.

I want to continue to lobby for accountability in spending and rate increases which unfortunately is unavoidable in these hard times.

I will lobby for the community and not for individual ideals.

Keep spending local.

Kia ora, my name is Janet Fleming, standing for the role of Councillor on the Taranaki Coastal General ward. From the cowshed yard on our Pihama dairy farm I can see our maunga to the east, and the ocean to the west, and truly believe we live in paradise.

While raising our family of six now adult children, I've taken on governance roles that aligned with the stages our family was at; school BOT's, dairy farming, organic business roles, sports clubs and managed the finance and compliance of our farming business.

I believe the role of council is a juggling act, to grow and maintain the assets our community enjoys, while minimising the rates charged to our rural and urban ratepayers to fund these. If successful on election day I'll be approachable and accountable, do my best to ensure your money is well spent, and our communities continue to thrive.

Tēnā koutou katoa<br>As a long-time resident of Ōpunakē, I am seeking my third term as your local Council representative. My deep roots in this region, both personally and professionally, give me a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our rural communities.

I am a dairy farmer and have been actively involved with golf and basketball both locally and provincially for many years as a player, coach and administrator. I also have Governance experience in the Education sector, from kindergarten through to secondary school level.

Over the past six years, I have enjoyed working with local community groups to listen understand, and advocate for the needs and aspirations of our people. it is important we have a strong rural voice who knows and understands the local issues our coastal communities are facing. I'm here to represent you with experience, commitment, and a genuine passion for our district's future.

My principle place of residence is in the Taranaki Coastal Ward area. I Bryan Roach currently a councillor for South Taranaki District Council seeking re-election for my 5th term as councillor. I was born and educated in the town of Opunake and still live and work on the family dairy farm. I am a director of various companies and involved in local sporting groups in Opunake.

As a councillor you must be open minded, look at the big picture, investigate all the options available, listen to the people, use a common-sense approach, including impact on rates then base your decision making on that. I'm known for thinking outside the box and getting the job done. I'm standing for the South Taranaki District Council.

Keep safe

Bryan Roach

Andy Beccard - Experienced Leadership, Strong Local Voice. I have proudly served as a district councillor for the past seven terms and am seeking re-election to continue representing our community with integrity and common sense. I have consistently advocated for strong local decision-making on local issues. I remain firmly opposed to regional amalgamation and amalgamation of our waters. I chair the Environment and Hearings and district plans Committees, making the district more enabling for our people. I am a member of the Audit and Risk Committee and played a significant role in shaping our Long-Term Investment Fund, which continues to provide lasting benefits to our district. A council needs experienced and new councillors to ensure robust decision-making. My proven track record of leadership, financial oversight, and dedication to local priorities makes me well placed to continue serving effectively. Vote for Andy Beccard - experience and common sense for our district.

Having served on the Te Hawera Community board, I'm ready to step up and serve my community further on council.

Serving the St John organisation for 20 years, and Hawera Mt View Lions for 2, Community is paramount for me.

I wish to see the retail sector in Hawera grow and work together to promote what the great town we live in.

Focusing on future growth in South Taranaki, to give students and young people the opportunity to remain in Hawera and raise their families in South Taranaki, which is great place to call home.

With dedicated family and community ethics, I'm honest, reliable and dependable, and here to be a direct connection from community to council.

South Taranaki (Hawera) is my home, my life, and my heart. I feel now is the time to step up and help grow the district that I'm proud to call our home.

Having completed a term on council, while also being involved in our own local business and as an active member of the community, I bring a grounded and practical perspective to the role. These experiences help me understand some of the challenges people face and the importance of making balanced, forward-thinking decisions that reflect our district’s needs. If elected, I’ll continue to advocate for ensuring our existing assets and services are well maintained before taking on new projects. I support exploring more cost effective ways to deliver services, including sharing services within our region, where it makes sense and provides value. I believe council decisions should always be made with a clear focus on long-term sustainability and what delivers the greatest benefit to our community. I’m committed to being a reliable voice at the table and working hard to represent our district.

Tēnei au he uri o Taranaki Maunga, Taranaki Whenua, Taranaki Tangata e toro nei āku ringa raupā mo Te Kaunihera o Taranaki ki te tonga.

I am a proud uri of Taranaki, here to extend my working hands to you all by becoming an active councillor on the South Taranaki District Council.

Born & raised in South Taranaki, I have listened & discussed the needs & aspirations of our hapori (community). I am firmly committed to fostering a vibrant, resilient and forward focused district that delivers for all residents now and the future generations. I'm focused on Sustainable Growth to ensure well-planned, community engaged developments respect our whenua (land) & Te Taiao (environment); Economic Development that will promote local business, tourism and investments that foster local jobs; Infrastructure & Core Services that ensures equitable investment in both urban & rural areas & support innovation to ensure delivery of essential services.

I love where I live. South Taranaki is an awesome place. Our backyard from the maunga across to the hills and out to the sea really is just the best. Right across the district, generous, committed people give their time and energy to decisions that affect them directly in pursuit of connection and community. I respect and support those efforts. For the last twenty-five years, my work has been in community development. As a self-employed cat-herder and skilled, consensus-motivated decision-maker, I work at both the governance and project level. Working with people requires political nouse, critical thinking and empathy. I have these skills and am confident they will be well-utilised around the Council table, especially as we face the roll-out of central government reforms to local decision-making. My name is Te Aroha Hohaia, and I ask for your vote and support for my election as a South Taranaki District Councillor.

South Taranaki has an exciting future and provides us with a wonderful lifestyle. This requires well informed, transparent and accountable local decision making by people like me who care deeply about our district. If elected, this will be my third term on the South Taranaki District Council. I have learnt a lot about the workings of the rapidly changing local government system which enables me to make considered and sensible decisions on behalf of local ratepayers. I am very active in the community which allows me to talk to a wide range of people and understand their opinions and needs. The questions I ask myself before voting at a council meeting are, is the council spending rate payers' money wisely, are we looking after what we already have well and are we being fair to the most people? Diana Reid

Having lived all my life in this district I still see potential for growth plus not forgetting the surrounding towns who help make up South Taranaki. Some of New Zealands biggest companys are stationed here and they keep Hawera etc growing. The council must make contact with them on a regular basis, asking what they need and how we as a council could help. The long term investment fund has to being used as a private bank that at the moment is being to fund private needs. Every bit of encouragement to be given to keep our hospital growing. Slash a by product of the logging industry must be cleaned up by the logging Co not left for our council to deal with. Whilst logging toys pay RUC and Diesel tax this money must go back into the infrastructure and not left as a council problem. Water, sewage, roads only.

I am passionate about keeping our rural towns and communities in the public eye to ensure the council knows that we are a vital part of the greater good. Times are difficult and money is tight so making funding decisions that have the greatest positive impact is vital. The experience I can bring to the Eltham-Kaponga Community Board is from 47 years as an aircraft engineer, engineering instructor and as a project manager. So I understand the attention to detail and long term planning that is required in the role. I currently serve as the Vice President of the Kaponga RSA.

I’m standing for the Eltham-Kaponga Community Board because I care deeply about our local community and want to continue being an active, engaged voice for our ward. Over two terms as Chairperson, and six terms in total, I’ve gained a strong understanding of how local government works and what matters to the people here.

I’m proud to be involved in local groups that bring people together and get things done. These experiences have shown me how much we can achieve when we work with a shared purpose.

I bring sound decision-making, practical thinking, and a respectful, approachable leadership style. I listen carefully, communicate clearly, and work hard to build trust and connections.

If re-elected, I’ll keep focusing on practical, long-term solutions that support the wellbeing and growth of the Eltham-Kaponga ward, making sure your voice is heard every step of the way.

I am standing for a 8th term for the Eltham-Kaponga Community board. I have brought a practical and rural view to the board for the last 7 terms and hope to do the same for the next term.

I farm in a dairy partnership at Rawhitiroa and have a dry stock farm at Tiromoana.

The community board members are there to look after all the community and put your concerns and projects to the District board. I think a balance of rural views on our board is good.

Thankyou for taking your time to vote in this years elections.

I’m standing for election because I want to be part of real, lasting change. Too often, critical issues especially those affecting minority and underrepresented communities are left unresolved or completely overlooked. I believe in inclusive leadership that listens, acts, and ensures every voice has a seat at the table.

As someone who understands the impact of being unheard, I am committed to raising the concerns others may shy away from. I will advocate for transparency, equity, and greater community involvement in decision making.

I’m not here to fill a seat, I’m here to bring forward the issues that matter, push for solutions, and hold systems accountable. If elected, I will work with others on the board to ensure all voices are valued and visible in the decisions that shape our future.

I'm seeking re-election for a third term. I've had careers in sales, management and accounting. My interests are classic cars, tramping, mountaineering, skiing, search/rescue. I'm Eltham's R.S.A Padre, and involved in church ministry. I've been privileged to serve you these past two terms in many areas of your communities, plus being involved in discussions/decision making, for councils town revitalisation programmes upgrading of structures, currently Kaponga Library/Eltham Town Centre. Helping business's with council issues and working with residents negotiating bylaws/regulations for a new home build, plus involvement in the new ANZAC Memorial at Rawhitoroa. Children, farming communities, families, elderly remain my focus, with honesty, integrity, fairness paramount. I'm asking please for your vote, to continue working with you all understanding council matters, decisions and plans for the future betterment of Eltham/Kaponga ward.

As a first time candidate, I am passionate about contributing to the future of Eltham-Kaponga. Born and raised in Eltham, where I still live, I have strong ties to our community and a deep commitment to its growth and wellbeing.

Now retired, I remain actively involved in local initiatives. I am a Justice of the Peace, marriage and funeral celebrant, currently chairperson of the Eltham Primary School BOT, a team member of the STDC Eltham Revitilisation Project and an Eltham co-ordinator of foodbank.

With a background in banking, travel consultancy and Law Clerk, I bring a broad experience in public service. I value integrity, confidentiality, open communication, and pride myself on being a team player with a positive attitude. It would be an honour to represent and support our community on the Eltham Kaponga Community Board.

As I approach retirement, I'm eager to give back to the community that has shaped my life. I've lived in Eltham and Kaponga most of my life, raising our children here, and I care deeply about the future of our area.

With more time available, I want to contribute to positive growth and support what matters to local people. I have years of experience as a Resource Coordinator for a major Taranaki company, where I've tackled challenges, listened to people, and worked hard to achieve results.

I'm committed to listening, understanding community needs, and helping turn good ideas into action. I would be honoured to represent you on the Eltham-Kaponga Community Board and bring a strong, thoughtful voice to the table.

I’ve lived in Waverley for 17 years and during that time I’ve helped with community projects like Abbotsford community health centre, the Waverley Summer Jam and the town centre revitalisation. I worked at several councils in senior roles over the past three decades, so I know how the Council works. I love the Waverley community, how people show up for each other when things are tough. I think we can keep improving the town and make it better and better and the same with Waitotara and Pātea.

Keeping our community alive and active is a priority that I continue to have after three terms on the Pātea Community Board. I was born here and have lived here most of my life, and it is important to me that the people who live in the more isolated districts get what they need to thrive.

I've been involved in many projects and events that have been successful in helping the people who live here, have better facilities, activities and memories.

If elected, I want to see that the Pātea, Waverly & Waitotara districts continue to get its fair share of improvements and facilities. I also place huge value on our environment and want to ensure we do all we can to protect it for the next generation. It's really important that the voices of the people who live here are heard.

I'm Charlotte Lawrence, currently working for DairyNZ as Coastal Taranaki Area Manager, along with Contract Milking with my partner in Waverley.

Born and raised in the agricultural sector, I've built my career across various roles within the dairy industry. My strengths lie in governance, financial management, and relationship management - skills developed through hands-on experience.

Living and working across Taranaki has deepened my passion for rural communities. I believe in creating strong, future-focused communities by supporting local people and sustainable development within the area.

I enjoy being active and involved in our local community and want to continue supporting initiatives that help our people and towns thrive. I'd be honoured to represent the Pātea community and contribute to sound, forward-thinking decisions that benefit both current and future generations.

My name is Cheryl Rook, my home is at Waiinu Beach, Waitotara, married to Brian and have three children and eight grandchildren.

Having been born in Patea and after being away from the Taranaki region for some years, we moved to Waverley for 16 years and upon retirement we chose to reside at Waiinu Beach.

I have been involved with various organizations within our South Taranaki district including Waverley Chamber of Commerce, Waverley Community Patrol, Waverley Revitalisation Group, Patea Waverley Garden Club, Waverley and District Maternity Home Service (Abbotsford) and Waitotara and District Hall Society Inc.

As a current member of the Patea Community Board, I have enjoyed working with the people in our region and council and feel that I can provide more to the community if I am elected to the board again.

I am proud to be a South Taranaki resident.

I have been part of the Pātea Community for the past nine years. During this time, I have enjoyed the advantages of living in this small close-knit rural community and playing my part in it. This has included being a member of the Planting Trust, Historical Society, Community Garden and Gallery.

I hope to continue bringing my skills to working for the Pātea Ward. This includes problem solving, keeping the community informed, innovative thinking and learning about the variety of factors and structures that affect us. Working in the museum I understand our complex history and how this still influences today. I have experienced various cultures and countries which gives a wider perspective to add to the intimate local knowledge that other board members have. I believe every member and area of our Ward deserves the right of being heard, no matter who they are.

No profile statement was provided

Lynelle has been active in the coastal community for over 12 years, but has only lived in Opunake for the past 2 and a half years. She is the current President of Opunake Players, and has a child currently attending Opunake High School. She is passionate about the arts and thinks that if she steps up for the community it might encourage others to do the same.

Myself & my partner have lived in Opunake for 7 years. My background is military & Government Agencies. I am currently a member of the Opunake R&A Executive.

I live my life according to the NZDF values of courage, comradeship, commitment and integrity.

I am passionate about our coastal communities and would like to see more investment in these areas. We have a couple of big projects on the horizon with the Manaia Hall and the Opunake Green Space.

I pride myself in being results driven and able to think of 'out of the box' solutions. My operational experience has equipped me with resilience, empathy & the ability to make strategic connections; all of these vital to the role. I am committed to the development and well being of our community.

Affiliation - Independent

Tena koe. Ko Mary Moore ahau. I moved to New Zealand from Canada 16 years ago and have made my home in Manaia for the past 10 years. Because there has been no facility for so long, Manaia has been missing out on community social events and other occasions for gathering. We have a lot of catching up to do. It's about time that Manaia had someone on Council speaking up for Manaia. I will represent the views of local people and make sure that community interests are considered in Council decisions. I have supported Manaia in a few ways: I began the 'Manaia Community Notice Board' Facebook page; I started Crop Swap; was Secretary for the Manaia Community Services group; initiated fundraising for the basket swing; and have worked the Santa Parade. With your support, I will advocate, promote, and foster our community to the best of my ability.

Tena Koutou Katoa.

Ko Caroline Waiwiri ahau.

Nei ra te mihi ki a tatou.

It is my intention to commit my time to attend every hui when required and participate fully representing the Taranaki Coastal Community.

No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, Tena koutou katoa.

Tena koutou katoa. Ko Andy Whitehead taku ingoa. Kei Oaonui au e noho ana.

My name is Andy Whitehead I am seeking re-election onto the Taranaki Coastal Community Board. I live in Oaonui where, in partnership with my wife Debi, we own a dairy farm. We have two grown children who also live in Oaonui and I am proud to say I can also tick the 'Grandparent' box.

I am an active member in a number of community groups including Opunake Lions Club, Opunake High School BOT, Opunake beach carnival committee, Oaonui Hall and Ngati Tara o Oaonui Sandy Bay. These groups encompass my passion for Community, education and the environment. I believe I have the values required to continue as a community board member to ensure positive outcomes for the Taranaki Coastal Ward.

I'm excited to stand for re-election after a rewarding first term on the community board. I'm passionate about ensuring our community has the support and opportunities it needs to thrive - and would love the opportunity to continue advocating for that. With a strategic mindset and a strong drive to get things done, I've worked hard to support local projects and ensure the board advocates for us through solid relationships with council and community partners. I'm proud to have worked on groups like Ōpunakē Players, Ōpunakē community pools and the Coastalcare Health Trust, and I'm always ready to roll up my sleeves when it's needed. I'm standing again because I'm committed to driving the positive change we need - supporting our people, growing local initiatives and making sure our community continues to move forward.

Ngā Mihi, Monica