My principal place of residence is in the Kaitake-Ngāmotu General Ward area.
Mauri ora. Moving to Ngāmotu/New Plymouth in 1975, I have perspective of its transformation from a provincial town into one of the world's 'most liveable' cities. With great schools, sport clubs and cultural history, New Plymouth has been a wonderful place to raise our four children. My life has gravitated toward hauora, service, community building, teamwork, reconciliation and discovery of better ways to live.
My professional background includes 11 years work in Taranaki Base Hospital's Medical Laboratory, 12 years teaching health science/computing at Taranaki Polytechnic and over 20 years leadership in CityLife Church and the wider Christian community. Relationships formed through our Te Ao/Te Reo Māori journey have enriched our world view. Current involvements include completing post graduate study, Police and sport chaplaincy, landscaping and occasional babysitting gigs with our grandchildren. I am approachable, attentive, motivated by a genuine love for people and will represent our district with integrity.
Yes. In uncertain times, balancing budgets requires teamwork, clear priorities, wise fiscal management and hope. I believe council spending needs to benefit the majority, so it's important there are clear plans on how these rises will fund essential infrastructure work, help people in our communities who are struggling as well as provide for future generations.
No. Water resource management is arguably the most important consideration for people’s health and well-being. Our sitting council considered and opposed Three Waters reform in its current format. I hope to contribute to this ongoing discussion and will advocate to ensure best outcomes for our community.
Yes. NPDC must stimulate creative innovation in urban and rural sectors and celebrate when improvements are put into action. While advocating efficient use of current resources, I would encourage water storage and conservation solutions, promote energy alternatives and help develop realistic strategies for environmental resiliency, especially in vulnerable communities. A fleet of electric vehicles will not solve this issue.
Yes. Not knowing current levels of support NPDC provides businesses, I am unable to comment. Saying that, I believe council has a role to play toward a thriving business community and recognise the importance of having a good relationship with our business leaders to understand how we can work well together.
I voted in favour of Māori ward representation. Mana whenua are key stakeholders as original kaitiaki of our nation. Kōrero and collaboration yield the best results as no one group holds all the collective wisdom required for our district or nation to thrive. It’s time to listen, learn and lean in to the future together.
Create an environment for collaboration and invite ‘big picture’ thinkers (including youth representatives) into spaces where strategic discussions concerning district/regional issues take place. A district of our size needs cohesion and a unified approach.
I am unable to comment on the detailed breakdown of what the $40million budget caters for, but support this initiative in principle. Having a multisport hub will provide generational benefits, promote sport and recreation in our region, and benifit our community as we host national events. I’m all for bringing community together but providing safeguards against a budget blowout is essential.
Prioritise people, essential infrastructure projects and initiatives that bring us together.
