Western Bay of Plenty Regional Constituency Candidates

My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty General Constituency area. 

I am committed to delivering strong, responsive leadership for the Western Bay of Plenty. As the founder of a successful software company, I bring 31 years of practical business experience, 

problem-solving and solution development using technology and a results-driven approach. My governance experience includes serving on the WBOP Neighbourhood Support Board and Chair of the Pyes Pa Hall, where I have worked hands-on to strengthen our community resilience. I have many qualifications including tertiary qualifications in economics, geography and accounting. I understand the complexities facing the community and region council. I care deeply about our community’s wellbeing, especially as we face environmental and economic challenges. If elected, I will ensure your concerns are heard and acted upon at the council table. My focus is fostering resilience, sustainable growth, and a collaborative future. Together, we can secure a thriving Western Bay of Plenty. Ka tipu tahi mātau. www.cathi4council.co.nz 

My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty General Constituency area. 

My name is Neil Parker, I am a lifetime Bay of Plenty resident , 61 years of age. 

My experience encompasses farming, horticulture, education, mentorship and a variety of investment activity including rural and urban property and equity investment with assorted relevant qualifications. 

Most of my working life I have been self employed. 

I will promote sound stewardship of our environment and as a practical farmer I have significant experience in land management. 

I will also rigorously promote the view that the council should focus on delivery of core services to ratepayers and not indulge in extra-curricular activity - a back to basics,commonsense approach. I will focus on financial discipline and ensuring our ratepayers are receiving value for money. 

I have served on various committees and boards over the years of both a commercial and community nature. 

Enquiries to nrparker001@gmail.com. Thank you for your consideration. 

My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty General Constituency area. 

Together with my wife Margaret I have lived and farmed east of Te Puke for the last 45 years. Our three children were raised here and they and their children still love to return to their roots as opportunity arises. Initially dairy farmers, our business has grown to include kiwifruit and avocado production as well as production forestry. 

I've been actively involved in community and industry affairs. For the past twelve years I have been a Maketu-Te Puke ward councillor on WBOPDC, including the last six years as Deputy Mayor. I am a qualified RMA hearings commissioner and hold a chair's endorsement. 

My life experiences have given me a good understanding of Local Government and the matters Regional Councils are responsible for. Given central Government's desire to do away with Regional councils I am keen to be involved in those discussions and contribute to the future shape of Local Government. 

My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty General Constituency area. 

Current Regional Councillor 

Chairman of River Management Advisory Groups; Deputy Chair, Regional Transport Committee; 

Chairman, Omokoroa Golf Club; Former CEO of four national industry associations; Former Deputy Chair of GNS Science; Chartered Member of Institute of Directors; Former Member of Parliament and Minister of the Crown; Former Member of Human Rights Review Tribunal 

Statement 

The function, form and funding of local government is in desperate need of reform. 

I support the proposed changes to the RMA. 

Planning and Consent processes have become too unwieldy and expensive. Major reform and simplification is needed across local government. 

Communities are Important and the local voice must never be lost. 

All citizens should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities in any open democracy. 

My commitment is to continue to drive the much needed reforms and resets.