+64 6 8672049 Contact Us
The candidates standing for election in the 2010 Gisborne District Council elections. The candidates have written about themselves and their policies.
Mayor | Gisborne | Matakaoa | Taruheru-Patutahi | Waiapu | Waikohu | Cook | Uawa
Meng FoonWe, Phyllis Rickard and Bob Smith, have nominated Meng for Mayor; we would like to say a few words, we think Meng is the best mayor our region has ever had.
His leadership skills are second to none, he listens and understands us. Meng and Ying are out there with you at your place. He is keen on getting more jobs for us all. He uses his business experience to keep rates down.
Gisborne/Eastcoast is special. Meng wants to ensure you that you will continue live in the friendliest place in the world. He has been fair to us all, working hard to keep our communities safe, doing things well and doing them right, his finger is on the pulse, and he is passionate for his community.
His door is open to all. Call in for a cuppa. Vote Meng for Mayor. Meng and Ying thank you for your support.
Tena koutou, 'kaore te kumara e korero mo tona reka', maua ko Phyllis (Rongowhakaata) ko Bob (Ngati Porou) ka korero mo Meng.
Ki a maua, he tino pai a Meng raua ko Ying mo tatau. mai ra noa, he tino tautoko a Meng mo tatau o Te Tairawhiti, kei te matau a Meng i a tatou reo, a te reo o te Tairawhiti, Kei te tarai kaha ia ki te whakangawari a tatau reti. He matatau ia kei runga te ao pakihi.
Kei te piranga ia ki te piki ake te oranga o tatau, ki rapa mahi mo tatau. He tino kamakama tenei tangata, he nui nga mahi whakatutuki a ia. Kei te watea tonu tana tari kaunihera mo tatau, ko tona kii, "peka mai mo te kapu tii, kei te koropupu te tikera" Puta mai o tatau nawe, me nga whakaaro pai ki a Meng, kia poti mo Meng.
Gary HopeGisborne is a great place to raise our family of four daughters.
We need to compliment our vibrant city with cultural and recreational opportunities to attract more people, create more employment and bring our young people back.
I believe we need to attract new industries and help grow those already here through a positive "CAN DO" council.
Raising rates every year is unsustainable and unaffordable for many. I plan to lower rates by reducing costs and growing our population.
I'm an outspoken and experienced Councillor with a degree in finance who's not afraid to ask the hard questions, like why commit to a new wastewater plant without first securing government funding?
I have strong leadership skills to unite and guide Council as Mayor into a bright future of hope. We need some fresh councillors and a better focus. I really hope for a change this time around.
Nona AstonIt has been a privilege working with the Council of Social Services, neighbourhoods, individuals, and other committees and organisations to help establish relationships and networks to enable a closer working relationship with Council, to work towards a more accessible, safe, cohesive, community.
Much has been done to give voice to aged, disability and youth perspectives, but there is much more to be done to truly integrate them into decision making and planning the future of our region. I believe that working together works, and to survive, all aspects of the community must work and plan together to make our region strong and sustainable.
I thank you for your support in the past and ask that you once again allow me to represent you over the next three years. My promise as always is to "work for you in the community".
GisborneHelping to shape Gisborne's future is ultimately the most important thing you can do as a citizen. And if you take the job seriously and work hard at it − as I do − then you really can influence things for the better.
Not just talk about it, but do it. It is not easy to balance current and future needs against the very real pain felt by ratepayers. I like to think of myself as honest, thoughtful and fair − and those qualities are the absolute basics when it comes to decision−making. I don't just say things, I think about things and try to do them better and cheaper.
So far, voters have shown confidence in my judgement and my willingness to work hard on their behalf. I appreciate that. If you're prepared to vote for me, I'm prepared to continue putting heart and soul into the job.
Gisbornewww.manu.org.nz
Something exciting happens when people come together around the hopes they hold in common.
Whether we are rich or poor, young or old, whether we live in Kaiti or Wainui, Whataupoko or Whatatutu, we seem ready to take this community in a new direction. All of us, from every part of the region, are keen to live in a vibrant, healthy and strong community and we need leaders with a track record of bringing about positive change.
My priority has always been including people most affected by decisions in the decision−making. I will vote for rates to be limited to inflation, support efforts to bring new skills and investment into the region and not compromise our natural environment, local culture and caring community.
The world is searching for examples of sustainable community − I believe with the right leadership on Council we will have something very special to offer.
GisborneIndependent
Andy Cranston is married to Sue and proud dad of Kylie, Kimberly and Adam.
"I consider representing you as an elected district councillor an honour. I always prioritise my time to give of my best and can assure you I will continue to offer a work ethic of the highest standard."
"I would like to continue my work on the Community Development Committee where I have voluntarily contributed to Youth initiatives such as chairing the Youth Transition Service, and on the boards of: Heart of Gisborne, Urban Development, Arts and Culture, Heritage, Sport Gisborne Tairawhiti and Youth Voice."
"I serve on the Environment and Policy Committee contributing to planning and representation of our shared visions for the future. I hope to continue to serve as a councillor, not only for our current needs but providing significant input into a future legacy we will all be proud to leave our children."
GisborneWith such a multicultural population spread, the district requires an experienced Councillor who is not going to focus his attention only on one sector.
The "kitchen table concerns" of a diverse community must never be forgotten by Council. Affordability of rates, employment growth, and providing for our community's health and well being, has been and will always remain a priority of mine.
As President of the Gisborne YMCA I have been proud to lead a team which has focused on providing much needed social amenities and community services within our district. Early Childcare, the Gymnasiums, and programmes for the "not so young" are but a few examples of services that my team have provided.
These factors I believe highlight my commitment to our district. In these difficult times a community has a right to demand the experience and leadership which I know I can continue to provide.
GisborneLarry Foster, 56 years of age, married with 3 daughters. Elected to Council 1998−2001. Did not seek re−election due to immense business commitments.
Past Director of; Blitz Surf Shop 26 years, Blitz Main Street 15 years, Blitz Paraparumu 4 years, New Wave Surfboards 16 years, Ngaru Toa Tribal Surf 5 years, Raglan Surf Co 3 years. Past President of; Surfing NZ, Gisborne Boardriders.
Current Director of; Boutique on Main Street (BMS), 22 Above. CBD property owner, radio Surf Reporter 27 years. Employed 35 staff at one time, created employment opportunities and training to over 50 employees. Member Heart of Gisborne executive, brief history with log transport business.
Goals; Promote, Preserve and Protect our Lifestyle and Environment. Make Gisborne safer, cleaner and affordable. Build on economic growth and tourism potential. Address traffic flow problems, roading quality and transport options. Help promote cultural unity, inspire investment, population growth, community pride and positivity.
GisborneI was elected to Council three years ago and am a member of a number of Committees − Finance and Administration, Operations, Community Development (Deputy Chairperson), and Regional Transport.
I am married to Pamela. We have lived in Gisborne for 42 years. I went to Mangapapa Primary School, Gisborne Intermediate and Gisborne Boys' High. Our daughters Veronica and Rosemary attended Te Wharau, Ilminister and Gisborne Girls' High.
I have been a lawyer in Gisborne for 42 years, served as Gisborne Coroner for 20 years and been involved in many community organisations.
Gisborne is a large region. Roading is a priority as is economic development. The library, museum, Olympic pool and theatres are important too. I also uphold our culture, history and artists − all making Gisborne unique.
If re−elected I will continue to use my business and legal background, and knowledge of Gisborne's community in my work as a Councillor.
GisborneI'm standing for the Council elections because I possess the skills and qualities to represent our community well. I'm a good communicator, active listener and team player. I have proven skills in governance through time spent on Sport and Recreation NZ (SPARC), Netball New Zealand and the International Federation of Netball Associations (IFNA) Council tables.
My involvement with local organisations ie: Tairawhiti Polytechnic, Gisborne of Chamber of Commerce, GGHS BOT, Women's Institute, Maori Women's Welfare League, Chelsea Hospital, Maori Business Network and Tai Rawhiti Ventures have allowed me to develop and see things from different perspectives.
When asked what would I support and advocate for if elected, the community or economic drivers? 'One cannot survive without the other, a healthy community requires a resilient economy, and a robust economy needs people to flourish'. I welcome the opportunity to work hard for my community.
For further information see www.underscorenow.co.nz
GisborneA straight−shooter who gets things done! My career as a teacher taught me to value people and that life is more about giving than receiving.
Accordingly, I attribute my success in Real Estate to assisting people in realising their goals and in so doing I also achieved my own. To date my contributions to society include community projects as a member of Rotary, sport coaching, establishing Quest Trust and starting
Quest House − a Child Care Centre for school students and staff. Recently as President of the Chamber of Commerce for four years I gained a real appreciation and interest in Council affairs.
Supported by my husband Lance and three of our four children who live in Gisborne, I am keen to be on council and involved in community decisions that will promote our district.
Now, I need your vote to enable my experience and knowledge to work for you.
GisborneMy name is Atareta Poananga and I am an experienced councillor, having served three terms.
During my time with the Council I have advocated for reform and change for those whose voices often don't get heard. As a lawyer specializing in Treaty of Waitangi claims I meet many whanau in this region and am aware of the needs of our people.
I believe that economic growth and sustainability is one of the key issues − as a councillor I will be lobbying for the sale of the Tauwhareparae Farms, which will create jobs and better the people's and the council's economic position. I will also continue to advocate for a fairer rating system, which addresses people's financial difficulties.
As a councillor I have been, and will continue to be, a strong voice for the rights of Maori, which affirms and strengthens the relationship between tangata whenua and the wider community.
Ko Atareta Poananga ahau, he kaunihera toa ahau, e iwa tau ahau e mahi ana i tenei mahi.
Mai rano ahau e kokiri ana mo ratou kihai e rangona o ratou reo. He roia ahau e mahi ana i nga mahi Tiriti. He maha oku hui me nga whanau o tenei rohe kei te marama ahau ki nga hiahia o te iwi.
Hei taaku ko tetahi o nga tino kaupapa kia whai rawa tuturu tatou – ka tohetohe ahau kia hokona nga paamu i Tauwhareparae kia whiwhi mahi te iwi hei oranga a kia whai putea ano te Kaunihera. Ka aki tonu ahau kia totika ake nga raeti kia ngawari atu nga pehitanga i runga i te iwi.
Ka whawhai tonu au mo nga painga mo te iwi Maori, kia orite ai te whanaungatanga i waenga i a tatou me te katoa.
GisborneClare "rate buster" Radomske. Born in Vancouver Canada, NZ resident last 30 years, from a family of nine, married to Jan, a nurse at TDH, father of two and grandpa for eight. Worked in forestry, community employment and education. Love Gisborne and want to make it better.
Key issues are debt levels and unsustainable spending increases. Over the last three years rates have gone up by 25%. Do you feel any better from these increases in spending? Have services improved?
Did you know that ratepayer debt was 22 million last year, this year is 37 million, and next year will be 49 million? And interest payments are 30 million over the next 10 years. Profit from owning the farm is just 1% before tax over the last 10 years.
I want to sort out this mess. I support selling the farm, paying down debt and reducing rates to affordable levels.
GisborneMy name is Fiona Ratapu−Rodden.
Father (Rongomaiwahine) Mother Te ai Tanga a Mahaki
My career started in the military for 8 years. Sent to Singapore I married and returned to Gisborne and had 3 children. I am the great great grandchild of Col Thomas Porter who was the mayor of Gisborne. I have had experience in teaching and nursing training, became the Registrar of Electors for Napier/Tukituki, back to Gisborne, taking a position as the Funding/Fieldworker for Tairawhiti Age Concern.
My challenge is, do you need someone who can make a difference to this council. My expectation is not about projects although they are important, my priority tis the people, tis the people, tis the people. When the people from all walks of life are supported, the city is empowered to make excellent decisions for our future.
GisborneI believe in Gisborne and the people in it!
I've lived here for most of my 57 years, broadcasting local radio news, hosting sport on radio and serving this community as a surf lifeguard. It's a special place to live and I'm at a stage in my life now where I know I can add real benefit to the decision making process at Council and make it even more special.
I have a well founded understanding of what's needed to be an effective Councillor. I'm a communicator by trade, a strength that would make me a proactive and capable councillor. I would embrace the challenges of being a Councillor, if you consider I'm worthy of your vote.
I guarantee to provide a full focus role, ensuring we get the best value for our ratepayer dollar and provide q high level of advocacy for ratepayer concerns.
Sincerely, Murray Robertson.
GisborneIn 1984 I was appointed, while overseas, as project Manager to oversee the construction, completion and establishment of Gisborne Hospital. On completion 4 years later, I established a successful Architectural practice in Gisborne, expanding to offices in Whakatane and Opotiki.
I have a university degree in Architecture and Project Management, Member of the NZIA, Institute of Arbitrators, Director of Habitat NZ, Ilminster BOT, founding member of the Gisborne Youth Sports Trust and have participated in many sporting committees and education organisations during the nurturing and education of my 4 children in Gisborne. All my 4 children, including my wife Susan have university degrees.
After 25 years of raising a family in Gisborne and a successful self employed business, I now have the time, management skills, life skills, innovation and experience to assist in the management of the Gisborne Council as it tackles the issues and challenges of the 21st century.
GisborneI have a passion for Gisborne and its people!
My husband, Deon, and I have two lovely sons who were born here. Before moving to Gisborne 9 years ago, I obtained my Masters Degree (M.Sc) in Cardiovascular Physiology and focussed on a career in academics. After that, I concentrated on raising my sons, and since 2008 I have run a successful medical recruitment business, whilst being actively involved in the community.
I am confident that I have the skills to be the voice for the Gisborne community and bring youth, energy and more female representation to the Council. Just what we need! I have a soft spot for our older citizens and we need to ensure a better quality of life for these valued members of our society. I am an open−minded, enthusiastic team player with a can−do attitude.
For more information please visit www.stoltz.co.nz.
GisborneI have lived in Gisborne most of my life and love this place. Running a pharmacy and being involved in different water sports has made me realise what a wonderful area this is. I believe the future of this district is bright and I hope my three sons and other young people choose Gisborne to bring up their families.
Young people are more mobile now and Council needs to make sure the city and region is attractive for them with good infrastructure, vibrant industry and recreational opportunities. To do so increases the inflow of skilled and entrepreneurial migrants as well as retaining our children and grandchildren.
There needs to be a balance between keeping rates affordable while still investing in the future. City rates have risen unsustainably high due to the wastewater treatment plant and in this tough financial climate, the balance suggests increased prudence of Council spending.
Roger HaismanLorraine and I now live on the Flats at Makauri. After spending three terms representing the Waikohu Ward, I have decided to stand for Taruheru−Patutahi where we now live.
The three terms served on council have given me a sound understanding of how Council operates and how our district economy functions, and what the real needs of our areas are. In the rural areas it is roads, on the Poverty Bay Flats it is flood protection, water and roads. In the city and townships it is community facilities, water supply and waste disposal.
My previous council committee positions have been Community Development, Environment and Planning, Operations, Finance, Hearings Deputy Chair, Waste Water Management, Regional Land Transport,
Waipaoa Flood Control Review Steering Committee. I believe my reputation for common sense decision making and being prepared to stand up for what I believe is right are qualities that are needed on Council.
Taruheru-PatutahiI am 50, married with an adult family that we raised at Makauri where I have lived for 21 years. My family originates from Patutahi and Makaraka, where I also operate our business. Having a good knowledge of the ward and being a self−employed Finance Company and Motor Vehicle Dealer Manager, I'm ideally placed to devote the time required to the role.
I was Chairman of a State Owned Enterprise for 2 years and have been a councillor of NZ Fish and Game for 14 years. I have a sound understanding of Governance. I aim to listen to your concerns and am keen to advocate a ground−up review of council's budget. Let's keep the 'musts' and balance the 'wants' making rates sustainable, while balancing the needs of our rural and city communities. Let's get back to the basics and Council's core roles.
Bill BurdettHi/Kia Ora te Whanau. My name is Bill Burdett, I am a fourth term councilor representing the Waiapu ward. From Anaura in the south to Ruatoria including the Mata Puketoro Ihungia back country. I live at Mangaharea just east of Ruatoria. I take seriously the challenges facing council both in the City and Rural areas; especially the coast, particularly within the Waiapu and Matakaoa wards. Roading, the maintenance of roading, good access at all times, responses to the requests of the ommunities, stormwater, waste water, solid waste (rubbish), transfer stations, and landfill servicing is critical to the wellbeing of all communities.
Ruatoria needs protection from the Waiapu River, Tokomaru Bay wants
the wharf made safe for future generations; Te Puia Springs an upgraded water supply, Waipiro public toilets. The current level of rates are no longer affordable. I seek a further term to address all of the above issues.
WaiapuIndependent
Ko Hikurangi te Maunga
Ko Waiapu te Awa
Ko Ngati Porou te iwi
Ko Waiapu te rohe
My name is Ngarangi Kanewa Walker, also known as Miss Nga. I am a mokopuna of George Kiwa and Kate Walker, Tamati and Tilly Reedy, and Bob Moeke; daughter of Claude Walker and Riripeti Reedy; mother to Karauria−Kahawai Walker.
Standing for the GDC I'm about: Rates, Roads, Relationships. Kia ngawari te utu, kia pai nga ara katoa, kia puawai nga hononga.
I've lived in and out of Hiruharama and Ruatoria my entire life and have been a permanent resident in Hiruharama since the mid−90's, attending Ngata Memorial College. My background is in television, radio and communications, with a BCS from Waikato University. I'm passionate about our land and the people who live it, work it, breathe it. I'm proud to be a Coastie and I'm committed to all the residents of our district.
WaiapuI was born 1975 at Te Puia Springs and spent most of my childhood growing up at Reporua. I reside in Ruatoria, after returning home from Hamilton in 2003 with an Environmental Science with Law degree (specified programme), majoring in Earth Science (BSc) from the University of Waikato.
Currently, I am a mother and the deputy Chair for Ngati Porou Hauora Board, my sixth year (second term) on the Board as Ruatoria Community Representative. I sit ex−officio on all NPH sub−committees, including Audit & Finance, Human Resource, Assets and Facilities and Policy.
In a 'voluntary capacity' I am Reporua Marae secretary, the secretary for Ngati Uepohatu Branch Maori Women's Welfare League and a Trustee on Te Puawaitanga o Ruatoria Trust. Te Puawaitanga Trust works with GDC implementing 'Ruatoria Township 20 Year Plan' representing the views of the community. I am passionate to make change for the better, for everyone.
Pene (Ben) BrownKia Ora, Pene Tuakana Brown
I have lived in the Te Karaka community for the past 30 years with my family. I have been involved with the local sports clubs, 19 years with the Te Karaka Volunteer Fire Brigade, and Chairperson of the Te Karaka Community Group.
My vision is to listen to the people.
WaikohuGreetings,
I live at Whatatutu with my family. I have 4 grown children and 13 grandchildren. Three of my children live here in Gisborne; number 4 is attending Waikato University.
We have a very strong commitment to the district of Waikohu. I am also presently involved in many community services here in the Gisborne District. I am also on the Mangaotane Farm trust (Chair). I am also part of a Ministerial Taskforce looking at the development of a relationship agreement between the government of NZ and its 95,000 community groups.
I have the philosophy of getting involved whatever the task might be. I have a commitment to Waikohu District and its communities.
I believe I have the credentials to articulate and represent to the other District Council members the needs and aspirations of our district. Vote Owen Lloyd!
WaikohuI am Pamela Murphy standing for the Waikohu Ward.
I have lived in Waikohu for 43yrs where my husband and I run a successful tourism operation Murphys Lodge.
For 22yrs I have been the Matawai Rural Mail Owner Driver. I have always involved myself in community affairs. At the present time I am chairperson of the Matawai Community Health Committee as well as chairperson of the Te Karaka Voluntary Ambulance. I am also a trustee for the Sunnyday Trust working for the Sunshine Bus Service.
My interest in standing for the council is that I feel we need to maintain a balanced council that reflects a cross section of the community and ensures a more even gender balance. I would put every effort into representing Waikohu to the very best of my ability. I have the time and energy, also the will to be a worthy councillor for Waikohu.
Murray HenareKia ora,
I am resident in the Whakaangiangi valley, where I am part of a farming partnership, leasing our Whanau land block. The last ten years I have been working for Tairawhiti Community Law Centre, as Community Outreach Worker, and previously I worked for seven years with Tairawhiti Rural Education Activities.
I have had involvement with a number of other organizations as a Trustee and Chairperson. At present I am Chairperson of Te Araroa & District Progressive Association, Chairperson of Pariwhero Incorporation, Executive member of East Cape Hunting, Fishing, Tourism Incorporated, Member of Tairawhiti Human Rights Network. I am also an active supporter of marae in this area.
I believe I have the required skills, knowledge, commitment, and time to represent this area at local council level.
MatakaoaKo Maungahiha te maunga
Ko Mangapurua te awa
Ko Potaka te marae
Ko Te Whanau a Tapaeururangi te hapu
Ko Ngati Pakeha te iwi
Ko Kerry Kururangi awau
For the past 14 years I have been living in Potaka and I aim to ensure that our little townships have a voice at the council table.
I will ensure that the communication lines between the council and you will be open and I will be reporting back regularly to you. I bring to this rohe and the GDC the skills and qualifications I have gained. Currently I am studying for PGDip Maori Values and Environment Management.
My passions are about the development of our youth, schools, marae, hapu & communities. I am excited to have the opportunity to stand for council election, and do so with the blessing of my family, local pakeke in the Matakaoa rohe, and my employer.
My name is Patrick Tangaere and I reside in Tikitiki near Rangitukia, the capital of Te Tairawhiti. Whakapapa to Whanau a Hunaara, Ngati Putaanga, Ngai Tane and Ngati Horowai.
I was raised on a farm, I know the problems facing many of our farmers today. I am the Principal of our local kura, I know the problems facing our young people. I am Chairperson of Tairawhiti Marae, I know the problems facing our whanau and hapu. I traverse the coast regularly, I know the problems that we have with our roading. I live and breathe the East Coast, I know the problems we have with our environment.
This is why I have decided to stand for Council representing the Matakaoa ward. I know the problems! I want to be part of the solution. Let me be your voice!
(no photo supplied)
Pat SeymourChairman of the Policy and Planning committee; member of Hearings accredited Hearings Commissioner); Finance and Monitoring and Regional Land Transport.
I am committed to this district and to strong advocacy on behalf of the residents of Uawa. I seek your support to continue this role.
My background and skills enable me to be an effective voice on matters relating to our communities on local community issues, on environmental issues and on the land based economic drivers of our district.
I have the time to devote to both ratepayer issues and also wider issues for the development of our district. I take the role and responsibility of an elected councillor seriously.
Key issues affecting Uawa are increasing rates; roading, even though substantial funds are spent annually on roads; urban drains, solid waste and wastewater. The protection of our unstable hill country, biodiversity and private property rights are also important issues.
Graham ThomsonIn offering myself for a fourth term the primary considerations are: Am I achieving? Am I motivated to continue?
I am a councillor who understands the consequence of ever increasing costs and will consistently vote accordingly.
I have through innovative, lateral thinking, initiated capital savings of tens of millions of dollars. I have independently proposed and developed policy that will benefit the region. I have independently proposed and developed concepts that will benefit the region.
As chairman of operations committee, adding priority focus on costs created substantial savings with innovative tender processes.
Achievement is the greatest motivator and as one of the two youngest councillors, have the energy and motivation to offer myself for another term. I am able to organize workloads outside council not to compromise the effort required.
My motivation and achievement earns your support with confidence.