Candidate Information

The following people have been nominated for the 2010 Local body elections

	Dale WILLIAMS - Mayor I have the privilege of being Mayor of the Otorohanga District since 2004. It is the most interesting, challenging and satisfying role I have ever accepted. I believe my leadership of Council is progressive and positive, and ODCs reputation of quality staff, performance and management is effectively maintained. My passion is people and I am very proud of the people I work with, support and represent to the best of my ability. I would really appreciate your support for a further term as Mayor. A number of new Councillors will join ODC due to retirements, so continuity of leadership is very important. As the District Plan review is still underway, I am committed to seeing the complex process through to its completion. For this I need your continued support for the next three years. Thank you.
	Sue BLACKLER - Wharepuhunga Ward I have represented the Waipa ward of Otorohanga District Council for the past 9 years. 5 years ago my husband and I moved to a dairy farm on Loop Road and I have decided to stand for the Wharepuhanga ward. Interest in local government grew after chairing Otorohanga Federated Farmers for 5 years.  I am a strong advocate on council for rural residents and believe that in these hard times we must stick to our core business.  ODC is a small efficient council.  I do not believe that amalgamation with neighbouring councils would benefit our residents.  Rural residents in particular would suffer with less representation.   For 3 years ODC has been reviewing the District Plan the draft of which will soon be notified.  3 of the current councillors will not be seeking re-election and it is important that there is consistency going forward.  Please consider my experience when voting.
	Rachel MEMBERY - Tihiroa Ward Hi, my name is Rachael Membery; this will be the third time I have run for council. This year I completed my Law degree, I structured my subjects to issues that I believe are relevant to local government. I would like to be able to put that degree to use serving this community. My family have been raised and schooled here, but now they have lives of their own. I have been part of the Otorohanga District for over 20 years, in farming and in business.  I am passionate about this District and its’ future, it is a great place to live for young and old and seems to be thriving. The issues and responsibilities that local bodies have to deal with are becoming increasingly complex. I have trained to be a Councillor, to represent your interests, and I ask you to give me that opportunity.
	Max (Maurice) BAXTER - Tihiroa Ward My family has been farming in Tihiroa district for more than 90 years.  I have a passion for our community and am committed to being a voice for you at the Council table.  I have had previous board experience on a school board of trustees, as well as with FETA (Waikato Ag ITO).  Outside dairy farming, I have previously owned a successful business and have a wealth of experience juggling customers’ needs with compliance requirements. I have an outgoing personality and am an open and effective communicator.  I have proven leadership skills and value integrity and fairness.  I am married with two children and am lucky to have the support of a happy, healthy family. With these strengths, no hidden agendas and a pragmatic approach to business I truly believe I will be a worthy asset to both the Tihiroa Ward and the Otorohanga District Council.
	Debeborah Mary PILKINGTON - Kawhia Ward My husband Chris and I farm at Hauturu. For the past 2 terms, I’ve represented Kawhia Ward as District Councillor and member of Kawhia Community Board. I’m also ODC’s representative on the Otorohanga District Development Board [council’s economic development agency]. I remain closely involved [as secretary] in 2 local groups and engage with many other community organisations / trusts as support and advocate on their behalf with various funding and government agencies. As council moves through the District Plan Review process, I’m constantly seeking a balance between economic and environmental issues, which is vital for the survival of our community. For 6 years, I have been part of a Council with a strong focus on economy, efficiency and core services and seek to continue for another term so that governance of our district remains consistent and balanced for the benefit of the whole community.
	Roy JOHNSON - Waipa Ward My duty as an Otorohanga District Councillor is to continue the good work of previous councils. This includes keeping a low level of public debt, affordable rates and a level of service that allows our town to be attractive and grow. My previous governance has been within Federated Farmers being Waikato Dairy Farmers of NZ Chairman for two years, a member of the National DFNZ Executive for two years and Otorohanga District Chairman for 4 years. These roles were based on demanding consultation, transparency and accountability. Key concerns are that debt should never be deferred to a future generation and that if any potential “super-council” is proposed, fair representation and financial benefits to the Otorohanga community are ruthlessly pursued. I am married with three school aged sons and have lived in Otewa for 18 years. I am a farm consultant, mediator, arbitrator and have local farming interests
	Ken PHILLIPS - Kio kio/Korakonui Ward I am married to Liz and we are Dairy Farmers on Rangiatea Road. We have three children and 3 grand children The Otorohanga community has done a lot for my family and I feel it is time for me to give some time back. I am not affiliated to any party but would go to council with the aim of serving the community. My abilities are in making things work and adopting good ideas.  I grew up in Otorohanga and completed my Tertiary education at Massey University with a degree in Agricultural Science. After working for a number of years as an Agricultural Advisor, I then went into partnership with my wife and have been Dairy Farming ever since. I am a keen supporter of Sport and Recreation.
	Andrew ORMSBY - Otorohanga / Otorohanga Community Board
	Robert PRESCOTT - Otorohanga / Otorohanga Community Board I have been born & bred in Otorohanga, married Karen 35 years ago, have two adult children, 6 grandchildren. I have enjoyed being involved in Councils LTCCP and the process of the District Plan Review and would like to see this through and to see our wonderful town flourish and grow.  It has been a learning curve for me over the last three years and I feel there is still a lot I can do to help Otorohanga.
	Aileen BERRIGAN - Otorohanga Community Board Our move to the Otorohanga District in 1989 was one of the best moves we ever made, we were welcomed and quickly became part of the caring community. I am involved in many aspects of our town, secretary of the Bowling Club, St. David’s Church & Friends of Beattie Home, edit the Church newsletter and work as a volunteer at the Budget office and Beattie Home.   Women’s Institute is a passion of mine and I served a four year term on the National Executive.   In March this year I was responsible for setting up a free, weekly, craft group in conjunction with St. David’s and Women’s Institute. My interests bring me into contact with many people from different walks of life and I would delight in helping to fulfill the Council’s vision of a Community Board focused on moving towards participatory democracy by building relationships within our community.
	Liz COWAN - Otorohanga Community Board I live at Rewarewa with my husband, Evan, and have always considered Otorohanga as “my home town”. I first joined the Otorohanga Community Board in 1998 and have been chairperson for the last three years. My community involvement includes membership of: • The Project Kiwiana team – promoting Otorohanga as NZ’s Kiwiana Town • The Otorohanga District Development Board • Destination Waitomo Inc. (promoting Otorohanga & Waitomo regional tourism). ………… and I’m still keen to do my best for this community.
	Brendon McNEIL - Otorohanga Community Board I am a current Otorohanga Community Board member and I’m the Chairperson of the Parks and Reserves Committee. This is my second term as a Board member.  I have enjoyed working with the community to ensure their needs are met as best as possible having regard to budget constraints we are all facing.  I am looking forward to serving another term on the Community Board if elected. I have lived in Otorohanga for almost 19 years having moved here from Auckland in 1991.  I really enjoy the rural lifestyle Otorohanga offers.  Since moving here I married a local girl Wendy Ingham.  We now have two boys aged 13 and 14 years.  We live on Mountain View Rd, Otorohanga.  I enjoy most sports and participate at varying levels in tennis, squash, soccer and golf. I work for Harcourts as a Property Manager managing rental properties in our town.
	Dave WILLIAMS - Otorohanga Community Board I am 58 and I have lived and worked in the Waitomo-Otorohanga area for 32 years. I was General Manager at Waitomo Caves and then moved to Otorohanga where I owned and operated a garden centre in the town. I am currently employed by Otorohanga District Council as the Community Facilities Officer and will be leaving this employment in January 2011. I live in Otorohanga and know the town and its people well. I have a keen interest in the community and the environment and I belong to several community groups and other associations.  I have some experience and involvement in the infrastructure and services and care of the town . Otorohanga is a great town with a vibrant and generous community. I hope to be able to help in the development, presentation and growth of the town. Thankyou.
	Miria WANDEN - Otorohanga Community Board My name is Miria Rose Wanden and I am running for the Otorohanga Community Board. I am the youngest of six children and have lived in Otorohanga my whole life. I am currently employed at the Otorohanga Dental Surgery as a Dental Assistant. I attended Hangatiki and Otorohanga South Primary Schools and Otorohanga College where I was Student Rep of the Board of Trustees for two years as well as being Head Girl in 2009. While young at the tender age of nineteen, the experience and knowledge I have gained from being on the College Board of Trustees has taught me the important role in which a Board plays in today’s society.   I believe that by being elected on the Otorohanga Community Board I will be able to contribute fresh new ideas as well as giving a voice to and representing the youth of this community at local government level.
	Anne LAWS - Otorohanga Community Board Arrived in New Zealand 27 years ago, to Otorohanga.  My husband had a position as Teacher in Otorohanga College.  I joined Playcentre, became Publicity Officer then Chairperson. I joined the PTA Committee at South School. Over twenty years ago I set up my own Insurance Advising Practice.  Being a woman in a male dominated profession was not easy to start with, but with my Scottish tenacity I have become one of the top Advisors in the country I joined the Otorohanga Business Association as I felt I had to put something back in to the local business community.  Three years ago I became chairperson of the OBA and am very keen to raise the profile of the OBA as local people don’t realise that we are the organisation that puts on the Christmas parade and looks after the hanging baskets. I joined the Development Board two years ago.
	Nigel Shailven CHETTY - Otorohanga Community Board Nigel Shailven Chetty is a proud and passionate local who was raised in Otorohanga, the eldest son of Ram and Neel Chetty; a community active family. Aged 26 he is standing as an independent, Nigel is proactive and involved within various sectors of the community, he listens and he cares. Educated at Otorohanga College he is currently self-employed as a Public Relations Consultant. He believes that armed with skills in public relations, business management, politics, education and youth and community development he will bring vision, experience and knowledge to the job that will prove invaluable. Nigel brings a new face, with new ideas and new vision - A vote for Nigel Chetty is a vote for: Value for Money – Advocate for an Affordable and Accountable Rating System Fair Representation – An Inclusive Democracy Where Everyone Counts Positive Change – New Ideas, New Vision, Fresh Approach Accountability, Transparency, Efficiency and Progress.
	Phil TINDLE - Otorohanga Community Board Married with two children,  Phil (38) was raised, educated, lives and works in Otorohanga.  Starting work in Otorohanga as an apprentice mechanic, advancing through to Service Manager over time, before changing careers and moving into the hospitality industry.  Local volunteer firefighter with 20-years service, Chief Fire Officer for 5-years before standing down to Senior Officer due to business commitments.  He served 5-years on the NZFS regional operating committee, and 3-years for the United Fire Brigades Association of New Zealand as advisor.   Currently CEO of the Hire Industry Association of New Zealand, Phil also jointly owns and operates Denise Tindle Travel (Otorohanga) and Cre8tive Solutions (Hamilton).   He has served the past 3-years on the Otorohanga Community Board. His interests include fishing, diving, and supporting his children’s participation in sports and activities within the community.
	Kit JEFFRIES -  Kawhia Community Board Property owner in Kawhia since 1987. Married to Dianne – 4 sons Community Interests:   Kawhia Community Board Member (2007-2010)  Otorohanga District Councillor (2004-2007)  Chairman – Kawhia Community Projects Trust  Chairman - Beattie Community Trust  Past Chairman, Otorohanga Support House                                  Past Member of Otorohanga College Board of Trustees  Past Chairman King Country Primary Schools Rugby Lesiure Interests: Sports, motor-cycling, music Considerable experience in the commercial, private and public sectors Associated with local government for over 25 years as a Councillor and employee Wants to promote Kawhia as a safe and vibrant community by focusing on the following four important aspects: Economic – building on existing strengths/ identifying and marketing further opportunities Environmental – protecting and maintaining our natural resources Social – a supportive community promoting wellbeing and a sense of belonging Cultural – recognising, developing, celebrating our history and cultures The key to achieving these is by meaningful consultation and involvement with all sectors of the Community.
	Jan BENNETT - Kawhia Community Board Jan Bennett has been a Kawhia Community Board member for three years.  Following retirement in 2000, Jan moved to live permanently in the Kawhia home she purchased in 1994. As a Director of Social Welfare, District Manager NZ Income Support Service, Regional Manager, Department of Corrections, Central Region, Jan accumulated a wealth of experience in Senior Management and inter-action with community and government organisations. Jan also worked as District Promotions Officer, Otorohanga District Council and amongst other innovative practices, put Wiki the Kiwi on Otorohanga streets, directed a video of the district with extensive coverage of Kawhia and recommended the establishment of the Otorohanga District Development Board. Jan sees consultation and engagement with the community as a major role for Board members. As co-owner of Birdsong Gallery, Jan is proud to stock the work of 17 local art and craft people.
	Lou SHERMAN - Kawhia Community Board My name is Lou Sherman and I have been a resident of Kawhia for 30 years. I am standing for Kawhia Community Board for a third term as I feel that I would like to have the chance to carry on contributing to Kawhia.  I feel I have learnt a great deal over the past six years. During the years in Kawhia I have been involved with several community projects and have come to be very passionate about Kawhia and its well-being.  I feel that the past three years have been very productive with the Board and Otorohanga District Council being able to achieve and work towards Kawhia's future and if elected again I would strive to ensure this continues.
	Hano Waikato ORMSBY - Kawhia Community Board Marae - Rakaunui / Waipapa Family - Wife - Hinga, grown up family of three sons, five grandchildren. Kawhia born and bred Passionate Community affairs person.  Involved in local Marae, school, Church, Youth Sports, Community Projects. Business - Life time in forestry industry, local forest Contractor. Incumbent Community Board Member (Deputy Chairman).  Wish to consolidate experience and knowledge to date and to progress with infrastructure systems that meet the times, encourage development, tourism, youth opportunities, sport make a worthwhile contribution to the Community (not achieved over last three years).
	Coreen SIM - Kawhia Community Board - Aotea I have owned a property in Aotea for nearly 20 years and have been a permanent resident for 5 years.  During this time I was involved in the building of the seawall and playing a part in search and rescue. Having lived and travelled New Zealand wide, Aotea is the only place I wish to spend the rest of my days.  My aim is to preserve the wonderful way of life that is such an integral part of the community while moving forward with the beneficial development of our community and preservation of our harbour and surrounding sand dunes. Representation and communication are, in my opinion the greatest part of this role and I will endeavour to do just that.
	Geoff GOOD - Kawhia Community Board - Aotea I have been encouraged to stand as Aoteas' representative because of, amongst other things, the proposed changes to the Otorohonga District Plan. These changes will severely limit permitted building activity within Aotea Village and potentially lead to huge drops in property values. Properties within 40m of the seawall will not be issued building permits or resource consents for any building activity. Those beyond 40m, with the exception of a few on Coopers Dr, will require resource consents that, in most cases, can be declined for environmental reasons. Aotea is a unique place that needs preserving, however Aotea also needs to look towards the future and needs to be able to work with ODC. Repressive legislation will not protect Aotea, a well built, well maintained seawall will. If elected, I will work hard to ensure that, amongst other things, idealistic legislation will not limit building and growth in Aotea.