Candidates

Wairoa is my heart and my home! I am standing for Mayor because I believe in the power of our people to shape a future we can be all be proud of.

With over a decade of experience in local government, including being Deputy Mayor, I know both the challenges we have faced and the strength we hold when we stand together. This is not about empty promises. It is about grounded leadership, collective action, and relentless commitment to our whānau, whenua, and future.

I will work tirelessly, listen with intention, and speak up boldly for Wairoa in every room that matters. My focus is on stability, resilience, and real progress - the kind that reflects who we are and honours what we value.

With a united council and trusted partnerships, we will deliver what matters and lead our community forward with pride.

Whiria Te Wairoa - Together We Thrive! 

Email: denise@wyat.co.nz

I am standing for Mayor because I believe my skill set in building business ventures is what Wairoa needs. Council bylaws can be used to create better business, health, and safe environments.

Management not money is the key to achieve a better outcome for ratepayers.

I ran a taxi company in Wellington for 20 years and minicabs in Christchurch for 10 years.

Event management is the key area to grow Wairoa, I have experience in this field as well. 

Becoming Wairoa's Mayor was never something I envisioned or intended to do, I originally stepped up to halt Wairoa's evident population and economic decline.

Covid-19 and devastating floods occurred during my terms as Mayor and in these difficult unprecedented tough times I've provided strong leadership and advocacy, standing alone at times, fighting fiercely, demanding action for Wairoa.

My efforts have secured significant non-council external funding for our recovery, because of this, Wairoa is undergoing progress, including one of the lowest rates increase in New Zealand.

Being Mayor is a demanding, full-time role, requiring relationship-building across all governments and their agencies.

There is no doubt, decisions at the council table are collective, but leadership and forming relationships outside Council generally falls on the mayor's shoulders, don't put this at risk.

Please vote sensibly, I will continue to lead Wairoa's rebuild and success, putting Wairoa first, ensuring a positive future for all.

 I, Kurawai Panere am running for Mayor.

I believe that extreme climate changes requires extreme leadership measures. The least you should expect is protection.

With climate effects lapping at our doorsteps we must be a community united and prepared for any emergency.

Our rating system must be transparent and the Wairoa District Council subject to giving an account to our people of Te Wairoa.

Let's be regenerative, sustainable, have courage and determination, to pave a future from our past successes and willing to diversify for a greater Te Wairoa.

Healthy, wealthy and prepared to lead Te Wairoa into the future with courage unitedly.

Kia ora! I'm passionate about serving our beautiful Wairoa district and ensuring every whānau, Kaumatua, and vulnerable resident feels supported, valued and connected.

Through my role as Facility Manager of the Wairoa Community Centre and years of volunteer work, I've had the privilege of working alongside local champions, community groups, and organisations to deliver opportunities that strengthen hauora, well-being, and connectivity for all. I believe in the power of sport, active recreation and Te Taiao - our environment as catalysts for building resilient, healthy, and thriving communities. My governance experience and hands-on leadership have equipped me to speak up for those who need a voice, champion local initiatives, and ensure Wairoa's priorities are heard both here and across the wider region. My vision is clear, a connected, vibrant and thriving Wairoa where every person can flourish. Together, we can build the brighter future our community deserves.

Ngā mihi nui, Sara. 

As someone proudly raised and educated in Wairoa, I am deeply invested in our community. As a mother of 3, I’ve spent decades volunteering across the Wairoa district including numerous local sports and schools. I’ve built a sustainable, community-focused business from the ground up, serving four generations of Wairoa whānau, whilst training and employing local talent.

If elected, my focus will be on boosting local revenue and industry by capitalising on the skills and abundant resources we already have.

I'm passionate about Wairoa – its people, potential and unique points of difference. I aim to promote our town’s distinctive character, lift morale and connect our community. 

My vision is that by collaborating across all sectors and cultures, addressing our challenges, and amplifying our strengths, we can achieve lasting economic stability and a shared sense of pride in our community.

Together, we can build a Wairoa where future generations can thrive!

I have extensive experience in leadership, management, and governance gained from 28 years’ service in the NZ Army, as CEO of QRS, a Trustee of Enabled, and a Wairoa District Councillor. I am actively involved in the Wairoa community through the Wairoa RSA and CACTUS.

My vision for Wairoa in the next three years is that we take every opportunity to rebuild Wairoa after Cyclone Gabrielle and the June 2024 flood. I want Wairoa to fulfil its potential by engaging with our community, businesses, and central government to take advantage of this once in a generation opportunity to maximise the positive outcomes of the rebuild projects for Wairoa.

I am passionate about Wairoa's future and will ensure good decisions are made that will benefit the Wairoa District and community.

I am married to Paula Couper, we have three sons and we are grateful for the lifestyle Wairoa offers us. 

 Kia Ora everyone,

My name is Stuart Harris and I am standing as a candidate in the general ward for the position of councillor in this year's election.

I believe that the council needs to focus on its core activities, like roads, water, flood control etc before they consider any other project. To do this the council needs to invest into its people through personal development so they have the capability to deliver on projects inhouse without the need to go to outside consultant's. That we have an appropriate level of staffing so they can do their work efficiently and meet rate payer or applicant requests in an appropriate time frame.

Regarding council charges and rates, I believe that they need to be fair and reasonable. So that the average rate payer can afford them and those who wish to invest into the district are not put off by them.

Sam has a business background, is president of the Wairoa Business Association, sits on the Wairoa Club executive committee and instigated the Keep Wairoa Beautiful campaign.

A clean, functional, and safe environment is essential for fostering community well-being and a sense of pride of place.  Promoting sustainability, cleanliness, and safety, creates a vibrant community where residents live, work, and play.  Celebrating local culture, history, and traditions, fosters a send of belonging and unity and strengthens social cohesion and resilience.

Prioritising core services for our community includes a focus on care for all residents, including those with disabilities.  Providing facilities and services for our population is crucial, including healthcare access and senior care options, mental health services and social support networks.

Future-proofing the local economy involves diversification and innovation.  By attracting new businesses, supporting entrepreneurship, and developing an innovative and unique visitor attraction industry, we'll drive economic growth and job creation.

Ko John Malis ahau.

I am standing for councillor of Wairoa General Ward because I believe in a future where our tamariki thrive, our local economy grows, and every voice matters.

Living in Wairoa for the last 13 years, I understand the challenges our communities face - from housing and jobs to safe streets and youth opportunity. I bring real leadership experiences from the public sector, business management and a strong commitment to work alongside iwi, hapū, and all residents.

I stand for honest, transparent leadership that listens and acts with integrity.  My priorities include creating more local jobs, supporting whānau and youth, improving infrastructure, and making Wairoa a place where families stay and succeed.  It's time for fresh energy and proven dedication.  Let's build Wairoa's future - together.

'Driven to see our community thrive.'

Challenges remain in the Wairoa district, particularly in housing and cost of recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle. I am committed to help rebuild our community shaping a positive future and strategy for the district, and for everyone who lives here. Going into my second term I am aware of key issues facing our district and understand what makes us tick. I offer vision, empathy and commitment to ensure community interests are considered and able to contribute business skills working in horticulture, farming, community development and governance to help realise our community's potential.

My concern for sustainability and seeking ways to live in a way that minimises harm to our environment but ensures resources are available for future generations is a key driver.

Positive communities are built on trust, inclusivity and mutual support. I'll ensure your voice is heard and work to build a thriving community.

Ko Veronica Tukaki tōku ingoa. I am proud to stand as a candidate for the Wairoa District Council.

I’ve grown up in Wairoa and am raising my family here.  I hold a Degree in Business and a Diploma in Legal Studies, and I currently work as a Registered Legal Executive.  I bring a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to fairness and transparency.  I hold a deep respect for our people, our whenua, and hope for our future.

I’m standing for council because I believe in Wairoa’s potential, our youth, our whānau, and future generations.  I care deeply about this town and I want to ensure that our local voice is heard, especially on issues like protecting our environment, upkeeping our infrastructure, economic development and looking after our Tamariki.

As your councillor, I will strive to ensure accountability and promote decision-making that truly reflects the needs of our community.

Tēnā tatou katoa,

Ko Benita Cairns, nō uri ō Mahia mai tawhiti, Nā Nuhaka, Whakakī nui ā rua, me te Waikaukau ano hoki.

The drive to be a champion for Wairoa is still what drives Benita to continue to serve the people of Wairoa.

Benita has a passion for kaupapa and initiatives that transform and advance lives for the better and supports the next generations to thrive.

The rohe o te Wairoa has been knocked around in recent years and has required strength, perseverance and unity across all spectrums of the community to get us through.

The following whakatauki describes the commitment and dedication that Benita Cairns will bring to the role as a Māori Ward Councillor:

'Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu kōe, me he maunga teitei'

'Seek that you value most dearly, if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain'

My vision for Wairoa is to ensure that the values set within council are upheld with integrity in our delivery of service. I understand that public service comes with many challenges and demands. I believe that my work experience in local government and with a local iwi organization has given me the passion and drive to serve our community. I pride myself on my work ethic, problem solving abilities, attention to detail and most importantly my whānau. I am fortunate to be in a position that would allow me to provide my full undivided attention to this role. Having the opportunity to serve our community at this level is not only a privilege but also on honor. I hope to inspire more rangatahi to get involved in public service and take up more leadership opportunities.

He uri ahau o Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa. He whakapapa taku ki ngā marae o Pūtahi, Te Reinga, anō hoki ki Pāikōwhai.

I'm standing for council because I believe in building a stronger, healthier Wairoa for our whānau. I will advocate for warm, dry, healthy home because every family deserves a safe place to live. Our rangatahi need more opportunities and clear pathways into higher education and meaningful careers. I'm passionate about supporting initiatives that uplift our rangatahi and open doors for their futures. I will also push for practical community improvements, like installing shade sails over the playground to protect our pēpi from the sun.

I'm committed to listening and representing our Māori voice with strength and making real change.

Ko au he uri no Te Wairoa. I am standing for the Māori Ward to bring strong, clear Māori leadership to the Wairoa District Council - leadership grounded in rangatiratanga, kaitiakitanga, and mana motuhake.

With proven experience in Māori governance and regional advisory roles, I will work to ensure that grassroots Māori perspectives shape local decisions - from housing and infrastructure to water, whenua, and wellbeing. I will speak up for our communities, hold decision-makers accountable, and champion solutions that uphold the mana of our people and the mauri of our taiao.

Mā te tika, mā te pono, mā te aroha - let us restore balance and build a thriving future for our whānau and whenua.

I, Kurawari Panere, Whanau & Business Owner. We need change. For the future of Te Wairoa. As a Councillor I see Wairoa District Council being more transparent and accountable to our people of Te Wairoa with our rating system. Decision making with our Awa (River) locally. Protection of our homes & our people is the least we should expect into the future.

We need courage, open-minded, diversity and strength unitedly to create a better future for our whanau & our community.

Te Wairoa working together.

'Your Vote for me is a Vote for us.'

I tipu ake au I raro I te tawharautanga o Whakapunake, o Panekire

Tau atu ki ngā wai mārohirohi o Te Wairoa, o Waikaretaheke.

He mokopuna tēnei nā ngā tukemata o Kahungunu, he tamaiti nō te kohu nā Tuhoe.

Ko au, ko te whenua. Ko te whenua, ko au.

Ko Michelle Tahuri tēnei te mihi nei.

Born on the whenua of Te Wairoa, I'm proud to call this place home. I'm humbled and grounded by my whānau.

My lived experience is in Sport Development, Community Engagement and Event Management, supported by qualifications in Education, Human Services, and Social Sciences. My passion is using these skills to uplift and empower our people. I bring innovative thinking and authentic community connections. I walk beside our people, always carrying the voices of everyday whānau with me.

With your support, I'll be a voice for our whānau, marae, hapu and Iwi at the table.

Kia ora, I am a passionate advocate for the Wairoa community. As a candidate for the Māori Ward, I am committed to being part of a movement that empowers our whānau to stand strong and realize their full potential. My goal is to help instill the belief that we have the strength and resilience to create a brighter future for generations to come.

Tukua te mānuka kia tū!

Let us all stand as one!

Ko Trevor Waikawa, nō ngā uri o Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairoa, Ngāti Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Pāhauwera me Te Whakakī‑nui‑a‑Rua hoki - born and bred, raised by people and whenua that continue to inspire him.

At 26, Trevor brings youth, fresh energy, passion, backed by years of local government experience. His strong background in environmental sciences, governance, iwi and community engagement, strategic planning, communications, and relationship building equips him to serve Wairoa effectively.

Trevor is committed to our people, rangatahi, taiao, and the future of Wairoa. He will support local whānau and businesses, protect and enhance the environment, and create opportunities for future generations.

If elected, Trevor will work with integrity and purpose to ensure Māori voices guide council decisions, champion rangatahi leadership, grow local enterprise, drive sustainable environmental initiatives, and strengthen partnerships - locally, nationally, and internationally - to bring new opportunities home.

Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui tātau.

I stand humbled and determined, to submit my name as a candidate to be a voice for the people of Te Wairoa and our surrounding communities. 

I am a mokopuna nō Ngā Nūhaka, a place that has shaped my values and instilled in me a deep commitment to serving our people. In recent and present years I have witnessed firsthand the resilience of our communities, but now I want more for our whānau.

My intention to stand as a candidate for the Wairoa Māori ward is simple, to ensure we have a strong, unwavering Māori voice at the table. I believe that every voice deserves to be heard and that meaningful change comes from genuine representation. I am committed to addressing local challenges, building a stronger future whilst being connected and present with our whānau of Te Wairoa. Accountability and communication is key.