Below are the candidate profiles for the Rotorua Constituency Candidates for the 2025 Local Body Elections.
- All candidates were offered the opportunity to film a short video answering the same questions with us. You can find videos below for those who took the opportunity.
- Voting opens on 9 September and voting papers to be posted 9-22 September. All votes must be received by 12noon on Saturday 11 October. Find out more about the election timeframes.
Daryn Bean
Phone: 027 337 1464
Email: dbean@xtra.co.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
Dr Daryn Bean (Tuhourangi, Tapuika, Ngati Whakaue, Ngati Umutahi)
Daryn is an experienced executive leader with a strong track record across public administration,
Maori development and education. He has held senior roles in the public sector and post-settlement iwi entities with a key focus on system change and leadership.
Born and raised in Rotorua, with tribal connections and relationships, Daryn expects local voices to be heard. Our environment, waterways, landscapes and community deserve more people in leadership roles. To listen, make decisions and take action!
Daryn believes in the Rotorua community. He believes Te Arawatanga enriches our lives and gives us the courage and innovation to enable us to thrive. Manaakitanga (respect, generosity and caring of others) is inherent in his leadership.
Roana Bennett
Phone:
Email:
I’m standing for the Rotorua Ward because I care deeply about our people, our place, and our future. With over 40 years’ governance, leadership, and business-owner experience, I understand the importance of a collaborative approach to solving complex challenges. As your Regional Councillor, I will work hard to protect our water, support sustainable businesses, and keep rates affordable. Rotorua deserves a strong voice at the Regional Council table, someone who understands our local needs and can balance environmental protection with economic growth. I’ve spent years bringing people together to achieve shared goals, and I’ll bring that same energy and focus to this role. As a former GM, leader and award-winner, I will be a safe and trusted pair of hands as we navigate upcoming challenges. I am committed to making smart, sustainable decisions that serve our community well, now and for future generations. I’d be honoured to have your vote.
Nick Chater
Phone: 027 206 6993
Email: nickchater1970@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
I strongly believe in the importance of regional councils, with core responsibilities being the management of our natural and physical resources. Our environment is under increased
pressure from climate change and severe weather events; with economic and environmental costs only growing.
Future-proofing and mitigation for climate change must be at the forefront of our thinking.
I have lived in Rotorua all my life and wish to be a strong advocate for the environmental issues we are currently facing. I have served nine years on the Lakes Community Board and have the experience, knowledge and understanding of these key issues. The wellbeing of our environment and its people are a key driver for me, and we must act now.
I believe success will require working alongside our local community groups and building a better relationship between Regional and Rotorua Lakes Council, I can deliver that. Vote for change and fresh thinking.
Tamati Coffey
Email: tamaticoffey@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
I’m standing for the Rotorua seat on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council because I care deeply about this place and its people. Rotorua is home.
It’s where I’m raising my kids, surrounded by our village, and where I’ve served as a Member of Parliament. I know how to work hard and across boundaries to make smart decisions. I’ll work to make sure Rotorua gets its fair share at the regional level.
We’ve got big challenges: protecting our lakes, building better connected communities, and preparing for a changing climate. But we’ve also got huge potential. I’m putting my name forward to ensure Rotorua’s voice is strong at the regional table. I bring experience, connection, and a proven track record. I’m not just running for Rotorua. I’m raising my kids here, breathing the same air, enjoying the same lakes, and dreaming the same dreams. I’m asking for your support this election.
Anna Grayling (nee Heap)
Phone: 021 331 039
Email: help@annaco.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
I’m standing for Regional Council because I’m passionate about our environment. I’m committed to economic development for Rotorua as well as protecting our taonga. I bring degrees
in ecology and law, 20+ years working in and alongside councils, and strong project management skills.
Rotorua has been treated like the poor cousin to Tauranga for too long. I’ll push to make sure our issues are heard at a regional level, and work constructively with Rotorua Lakes Council to progress the things that matter.
This is about the water we swim in, the air we breathe, and the environments we enjoy. It’s about setting the right direction for resources, economic development and making better decisions for our region.
Rotorua needs strong, active representation. I’ll fight hard for you and for the generations to come. Our future depends on the decisions we make today. Let’s make choices our kids will be proud of.
Rose Hiha-Agnew
Phone: 027 760 9969
Email: rose.communityboard@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
I’m standing for the Regional Bay of Plenty Council to lead Rotorua through one of the biggest shake-ups councils may face. I bring new energy and leadership that will continue to protect our lakes, rivers, and environment, but with balance, supporting a five year fixed rates cap, making every dollar count.
My governance and environmental expertise comprise of Trustee at BayTrust (appointed 2025), CEO of Community Governance Aotearoa – an organisation that supports 5,000+ not-for-profits nationwide with good governance practice, former Chair of Keep New Zealand Beautiful, and Co-Chair of the Endangered Species Foundation.
I’ve worked alongside our local communities, boards, and iwi to strengthen decision-making, uphold accountability, and protect our natural taonga. I’m committed to transparent leadership and practical solutions, ensuring our community comes first and Rotorua’s voice is kept strong and respected.
Raj Kumar
Phone: 021 821 869
Email: raj_springfield@live.com
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
My name is Raj Kumar a resident of Springfield. Happily married to Jagruty & together we operate our Superette & lotto shop. We also introduced the Nandos franchise to Rotorua. I served as a councillor between 2016 to 2022 at Rotorua council. An unsuccessful bid for the Mayorality, I returned to my business and also focused on family time.
Rested & Re-booted a desire to represent Rotorua and fight for the city’s fair share of the Regional rates.
Rotorua needs improved Roading networks.
A long-term solution sought to the Rotoiti (Oahu channel Diversion) wall, Ngongotaha flood mitigation. The slow & unfair response to the lake Tarawera sewage scheme has needlessly costed the Ratepayers millions.
It’s time for positive changes, fresh blood & New thinking. It’s our City & I promise to engage, work hard and represent everyone.
Please Vote for Rajmesh Kumar to deliver the Re-boot needed.
Stuart McManaway
Phone: 021 222 0859
Email: jjmac1111@proton.me
My principal place of residence is not in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
I’m proud to be standing to bring a grounded, practical voice to our region. I’ve lived in the Bay of Plenty most my of life and I’m now relocating to Rotorua following the sale of Tauranga’s Marine Precinct, a turning point that showed me how much regional money can be redirected without proper accountability or local benefit. As a business director and an experienced marine and trade engineer, I know how to deliver results, manage complex operations, and fix what’s not working. I’m ready to put those skills to work for the people of Rotorua. I believe this region deserves people who listen, act, and make sure local voices are heard where it counts. I’m committed to fairer funding, infrastructure that serves the community, and restoring trust in council decision-making. Rotorua has a strong future, and I want to help build it in partnership with those who call it home.
Jude Pani
Phone: 027 294 5170
Email: judepani@xtra.co.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
Having worked as an executive across all areas of local government I now seek to represent my home district of Rotorua as a councillor on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.
I bring a strong understanding of how local government works, from both a ratepayer’s perspective and through my experience as a senior staff member involved in council operations. This includes leading democratic processes, engaging effectively with communities, and advocating for outcomes that reflect local priorities.
My background combines strategic thinking, relationship-building, and a deep commitment to community voice and participation. I have worked alongside iwi, community groups, and stakeholders to support collaborative solutions.
Above all, I am passionate about ensuring environmental values are protected and integrated into council decision-making, so that outcomes truly serve both our people and our place, now and for future generations.
I respectfully ask for your support to represent Rotorua around the regional council table.
Lyall Thurston
Phone: 027 496 6499
Email: thurst@xtra.co.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
Experience counts. Strong on action, advocacy and community engagement. Championing Rotorua on Regional Council. I understand our community and the issues important to you and your family. Rotorua raised and educated. Queen's Service Order (QSO) for Community Service. Justice of the Peace. Our Heroes New Zealand Herald Runner-up. New Zealander of the Year Semi Finalist. Committed to science and research-based solutions to address climate change, cleaner air, biosecurity, cleaner water in lakes and enhanced flood protection for rivers and streams. Displayed support for community programmes and community involvement in lakes, flood management and protection of our unique geothermal resources.
A team player with sound knowledge of decision-making skills and governance. Approachable, proven advocate for all constituents with a track record of strong work ethic, sense of community responsibility and integrity.
Vote for honesty and accountability. Rotorua needs and deserves a strong, informed and experienced voice fighting on your behalf.
Brett Wilson
Independent
Phone: 021 451 145
Email: brett.wilson@watchdog.co.nz
My principal place of residence is not in the Rotorua General Constituency area.
I'm running for Regional Council because I'm passionate about advocating for Rotorua and its resources. With 20 years as CEO of Watchdog Security Group, I bring a strong understanding of business practices crucial for Council operations. My 9-year tenure on the NZ Security Association Board (including 2 terms as Chair) and the Rotorua Chamber of Commerce Board has equipped me with governance experience necessary for effective Council function. Additionally, managing a 60-hectare beef farm and enjoying fishing provide me with a balanced perspective on balancing economic viability with environmental conservation.
My initial focus if I were to be elected would be on building effective working relationships with other councils in our region and a focus on efficiency of front-line operations to most positively benefit our regional communities.