CANDIDATES
Learn more about who’s standing for election this year.
Candidate Elevator Pitches
We took some of the people that are standing in these upcoming local elections to the only elevator in Rangitīkei (that we know of) so that they could pitch to you why they should get your vote!
Each candidate was give a maximum of 90 seconds to answer three questions where they could inform people about who they are, why they're standing and what value they can bring to the Council or community board table.
All candidates were given the opportunity to take part. However, some declined or were unable to make the filming dates due to prior commitments. In total, 17 produced pitches, which you can now view on our YouTube channel.
| Mayor (1 vacancy) | |
CHRISTISON, David |
Email:
Mobile: 021 237 6819 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Rangitīkei District Council area. I am also standing for Central Ward. Dear Rangitīkei Voters, As your Mayor/Councillor, I’m committed to working collaboratively to make our district an even better place to live, work, and thrive. I care deeply about our community and will focus on the real needs and concerns of our people. I’ve lived in Rangitīkei for 53 years, with strong ties to Bulls and Marton—where my four children were raised. As a long-time small business owner, I’ve seen our region grow and change, and I’m passionate about protecting its unique character while encouraging positive, balanced development. I currently serve as Deputy Chair of the Marton Community Committee. My business background has equipped me to tackle complex issues, listen to diverse views, and work toward practical solutions. When elected, I will bring energy, transparency, and a results-driven approach to council. Vote for David Christison to help shape a stronger future for Rangitīkei. |
HAINSWORTH, John |
Email:
Mobile: 027 508 8434 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Rangitīkei District Council area. I am also standing for Central Ward. I have lived and worked in Rangitikei most of my life. I’m an approachable person that is willing to listen and respond respectively to people’s concerns on council matters. I am a person that will give a 100% effort to whatever I put my name to, otherwise I wouldn’t put my name forward as most of the people who know me are aware of. I have owned and run my own company and was asked to help some new local companies get started and up and running. I have working knowledge of both the roading and water services of the Rangitikei, as I’ve worked closely with both services over the past years. The Rangitikei is a great place to live, work and to raise a family with a close knit community. My down to earth personality, I look forward to being able to work for the people of the Rangitikei. |
LOUDON, Simon |
Email:
Mobile: 021 357 727 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Rangitīkei District Council area. Times are changing in local government and we need change now for Rangitikei. I offer a fresh perspective, a new vision of what our towns and district could be. I’m not satisfied with ordinary. I am a current councillor with a supportive family. I have lived in Marton for 20 years and have worked as a health professional based in Bulls and travelling to Taihape. I care about your wellbeing and what matters to you. I can make things happen and with my council experience, I’m ready to lead out change. I value the simple things like clean streets and town centres, footpaths and green spaces. I believe in trust and transparency, clear and critical thinking. I look for those opportunities where our district can develop as well as being efficient and affordable. |
WATSON, Andy |
Email:
Mobile: 027 617 7668 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Rangitīkei District Council area. I’m Andy Watson, married to Beth, with three children. I hold a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and have worked in farming, tourism, and small business. I am proud to be the current Mayor of the Rangitikei, a role I’ve held for four terms. The next term will be crucial due to significant government reforms like the RMA changes and Local Water Done Well. These require experience, and strong relationships which I have built over time. I’ve championed key projects such as Marton’s water upgrades, wastewater improvements, earthquake-prone building replacements, and Marton pool repairs, and I want to see them completed affordably. I advocate nationally for roading budgets, rail, economic development, and local police retention. I’m deeply passionate about our district and actively support local projects, working bees, and sports clubs. I’m always available to meet and explain my decisions and motivations. Thank you for your support and consideration. |
| Northern Ward (2 vacancies) | |
BAIRD, Diana |
Email:
Mobile: 021 147 4918 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Northern Ward area. To serve as your councillor would be my privilege: I bring a hands on, real time connection to Northern Rangitikei issues. Having lived nearly 40 years up the Kawhatau Valley, Mangaweka, (despite growing up in Wellington), I love our hills, rivers and fabulous community. My children (and grandchildren!) all value a country upbringing – the joys and the hard work. Yes, I’m Mrs Peacharine, owning a sheep, beef and stonefruit orcharding business with my husband Grant where we enjoy employing rangatahi. Exercising my business degrees, I have financially governed a major NZ’s not-for-profit, traded internationally, led government funded on-farm research and spent nearly 10 years mentoring agricultural and horticulture undergraduates at Massey University. Currently I chair Ruapehu REAP and am treasurer of St Davids Church. He aha te mea nui o tea ao? He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata. |
KIPLING-ARTHUR, Peter |
Affiliation: Working for the District Email: Mobile: 021 023 39254 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Northern Ward area. I am also standing for Taihape Community Board. As chair of the Taihape Community Board in the last three years I ensured a voice for the wider community in the Northern Ward. If elected a councillor, I will continue to advocate for the needs of Rangitikei. My focus remains on community engagement and creating a better district. Rangitikei has key issues facing it in the current economic climate. Working together, we can make the most of many opportunities in our region. I was born and educated in Taihape. After work in education, hospitality and management, I retired to my hometown. Currently involved in the Taihape Museum, Taihape Neighborhood Support plus working closely with others to preserve our Grandstand and Town Hall. I will continue working for the benefit of a town and district that gave much to my family. I will be a voice for the Ward; with positive communication with stakeholders and be accountable for decisions. |
WONG, Jeff |
Email:
Mobile: 021 170 7637 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Northern Ward area. I have just finished my first term as a Councillor and have been learning the mechanisms of local government from the best possible place and am seeking re-election. My background is Taihape. I am from Taihape and have worked in our local family business, local schools and have been involved in numerous local clubs and trusts and continue to be community focused. There has been considerable changes in local government over the last three years and the changes are coming at an increasing rate. A large amount of my time is spent interpreting and relating this information to local ratepayers which is a main part of being a councillor. I will continue to advocate for Taihape and balance the challenges of increasing costs, reduction of funding from Central Government and strive to make Taihape and the whole Rangitikei a better place to live, do business in and for our visitors. |
| Central Ward (5 vacancies) | |
ADAMS, Justin |
Email:
Mobile: 021 222 5082 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. Independent Candidate for Rangitikei District Council. As a member of the Rangitikei community and ratepayer, I am putting myself forward to run for council. I am committed to fostering growth and economic sustainability within our district. Transparency, accountability, and community engagement are at the core of my approach. I believe in open communication, transparency and actively involving ratepayers in decision-making processes. As a long-time advocate for transparent council processes, I have consistently championed the importance of open to the public workshops and the right of ratepayers to raise issues to those elected to serve them. Together, we can build a vibrant, resilient, and prosperous Rangitikei. Vote for a candidate who listens, acts, and delivers. Let’s build a better Rangitikei. |
BUCKENDAHL, Alan |
Email:
Mobile: 027 210 5078 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. I was born and educated in Marton. I left school to go to Government Printing Office in Wellington where I served a 5 year apprenticeship, married Dale, and returned to Marton to work in my parents’ business, Marton Printery. I have served on the Committees of South Rangitikei Car Club, Marton A&P Association (Secretary), Motuoapa Boat Club (President & Life Member), currently Marton RSA (President & Life Member). Over the years when asked to stand for election as an RDC Councillor, I have declined due to time constraints. Now that I am retired, I feel it’s time to give back to the community after 56 years as a ratepayer and local business owner. I aim to help this District, and our town Marton, progress in an orderly and sustainably affordable manner, for the benefit of future generations. Thank you for considering me . |
CHRISTISON, David |
Email:
Mobile: 021 237 6819 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor. Dear Rangitīkei Voters, As your Mayor/Councillor, I’m committed to working collaboratively to make our district an even better place to live, work, and thrive. I care deeply about our community and will focus on the real needs and concerns of our people. I’ve lived in Rangitīkei for 53 years, with strong ties to Bulls and Marton—where my four children were raised. As a long-time small business owner, I’ve seen our region grow and change, and I’m passionate about protecting its unique character while encouraging positive, balanced development. I currently serve as Deputy Chair of the Marton Community Committee. My business background has equipped me to tackle complex issues, listen to diverse views, and work toward practical solutions. When elected, I will bring energy, transparency, and a results-driven approach to council. Vote for David Christison to help shape a stronger future for Rangitīkei. |
DALGETY, Fi |
Affiliation: Strong Voice For Our District Email: Mobile: 021 222 8460 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. Born in the Rangitikei, I am a passionate advocate for thriving rural communities. I aim to listen and be a strong voice for our district. I enjoy connecting and I care. My husband, Alex and I have been farming in Hunterville for the past 35 years. After gaining a degree in Business Studies, I practiced locally as a registered property valuer. I have completed the IOD Company Directors Course, AWDT Escalator leadership program, sat on their Board and the Beef and Lamb Farmers Council. I now sit on the Rangitikei Rivers Catchment Collective and have served on school boards and many committees locally. I feel privileged to have been your representative for the past two terms. Local Government and our district is experiencing significant change. I am prepared to listen, make bold decisions and work hard so that your vote will ensure a progressive future for the Rangitikei. @fidalgetyforrangitikei |
FIELD, Sandra |
Email:
Mobile: 022 647 0547 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. I’m Sandra Field, standing for election to the Rangitikei District Council. Marton has been my home since I was four. I’m a proud mum of three and Nana to many, and I’ve always believed in giving back to the community that raised me. I work as a Community Support Worker with people who have intellectual disabilities, and my varied local experience has taught me the value of empathy, teamwork, and advocacy. If elected, I’ll champion groups supporting our most vulnerable, back our schools and arts, and explore ways technology and innovation can benefit our district. I’m also committed to ensuring our older residents stay connected and well-supported. I love our region and enjoy capturing its beauty through photography. I believe in listening, learning, and working together to build a strong, inclusive community. Let’s kōrero – I’d love to hear what matters to you. 022 647 0547 sasafrat1@gmail.com |
HAINSWORTH, John |
Email:
Mobile: 027 508 8434 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor. I have lived and worked in Rangitikei most of my life. I’m an approachable person that is willing to listen and respond respectively to people’s concerns on council matters. I am a person that will give a 100% effort to whatever I put my name to, otherwise I wouldn’t put my name forward as most of the people who know me are aware of. I have owned and run my own company and was asked to help some new local companies get started and up and running. I have working knowledge of both the roading and water services of the Rangitikei, as I’ve worked closely with both services over the past years. The Rangitikei is a great place to live, work and to raise a family with a close knit community. My down to earth personality, I look forward to being able to work for the people of the Rangitikei. |
HASTINGS, Bryan |
Affiliation: Independent Email: Mobile: 021 027 34596 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. Left school at 16 for work with no qualifications, I gained through night school studies both University Entrance and NZ Chartered Accountant status. Work Experience: Worked various office jobs mainly around construction. Transfered by Fletcher Construction to Sydney. Ten years with McMaster Pty Ltd a company I formed, owned and was its Managing Director. Worked as a professional contractor on complex infrastructure projects learning engineering management concepts. Included; Stanwell Power Zerogen clean coal; Caltex refinery..Downer; HH Mod ..Boeing Defence Last assignment was Turitea Windfarm. Most of my work has ultimately been for Councils and other government agencies. Today: Recently bought a home off Station Road which I partly renovated. Looking forward to finding work I can make a contribution in. Am ready, fit and able to serve as a Councillor. |
WILSON, Dave |
Email:
Mobile: 027 223 4279 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Central Ward area. Dave Wilson I am a 3rd Term councillor serving the Rangitikei District. I am the current Chair of the Council Assets & Infrastructure Committee and have served as the Deputy Mayor for the last 3 years. There are many challenges ahead for our district, upcoming Local water done well reforms and the Resource Management Act review will have long term impacts for our district and our ratepayers, this will require careful management to ensure our local voice is, not only heard, but maintained! Our new assets Major works programme is under way, and I believe long overdue, however how do we maintain this forward-thinking work, for the benefit of those here now and those in the future? how do we pay for it? Tough questions, which must be answered. Moving Marton & Rangitikei forward. |
| Southern Ward (2 vacancies) | |
JENKINS, Graham |
Affiliation: Advocate for Ratepayers Email: Mobile: 021 026 31248 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Southern Ward area. My name is Graham Jenkins. Born and bred in the Waikato and moved permanently to Bulls 4 years ago, living with my daughter (ECE), son in law who is military, and 2 lovely grandchildren. I have been self employed since 1982 and currently operate a successful claims advocacy business in High Street Bulls. I have also project managed $1.75 million of my own property developments and so are fully aware of the processes of council, can well manage financial contracts, builders, architects, designers, and during my time as self employed am very experienced in reading and interpreting company accounts and balance sheets. Would regard myself as a no nonsense individual and are able to cut through red tape and bureaucracy and will work for the electorate’s interests first and foremost and for the region. My local hobbies and interests include horse breeding and motorcycling. |
O'FEE, Graeme |
Email:
Mobile: 021 250 9076 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Southern Ward area. I am a family man and have been a Rangitikei resident for 31 years. From 1976, I worked as a building contractor, designing and constructing houses, industrial and farm buildings, cowsheds, and bulk stores for Ravensdown. I later transitioned to becoming New Zealand’s leading supplier of equestrian jumps and arena products, including exporting to Australia. Currently, I am employed part-time at Nga Tawa Diocesan School and run a lifestyle farm. My past roles include Chairperson of the Halcombe School Board of Trustees, President of the Rangitikei Hunt, and President of the Feilding Pony Club. I have also served on committees for the Feilding IA&P Show, CD Showjumping Group, Feilding Rugby, and Feilding Old Boys. My expertise lies in project management, particularly working within tight budgets and timeframes. I offer a strong sense of fiscal responsibility and advocate for fairness and equality. |
ROWE, Bryan |
Email:
Mobile: 0204 860 063 Address: My principal place of residence is not in the Southern Ward area. I am standing for election as the Southern Ward Councillor for Rangitikei District Council. I served 27 years in the NZDF, including operational service with NATO, ISAF and OEF. I remain part of the Active Reserve, and a member of the Bulls Returned Services Association. Worked under the US Dept of State in Afghanistan, supporting the Counter Narcotics Advisory Team. I am Director of a local small business, Te Waka Consultants Ltd, specialising in tailored programmes which include civil management, driver licensing, infrastructure, hospitality and trade training, delivering consistently strong outcomes. I work with local and regional partners to deliver employment and vocational training pathways. With a background grounded in discipline, leadership, planning and community, I am committed to advancing opportunities across the Southern Ward. I aim to strengthen youth employment, enhance infrastructure skills, and work for the betterment of all who call our community home. |
SHARLAND, Paul |
Email:
Mobile: 027 450 3056 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Southern Ward area. Recently widowed with two adult children and four grandchildren, I have lived in the Rangitikei for the past 53 years, 20 years at Flock House and Scotts Ferry and 33 years in the Bulls township. I serve on a number of Bulls Community Organisations and am the Project Director of the recently erected Chris Amon Memorial Statue and Bulls Commemorative Centre. Also a newly elected Local Advisory Committee member for Fire and Emergency NZ. Having been a Councillor since the bi-election in 2024, I understand the responsibilities of the position and am looking forward to the challenge of continuing as your Southern Ward Councilor for the next three years. I am very passionate about the Rangitikei and the Bulls and Local Communities and will serve to the best of my ability. |
| Tiikeitia ki Uta (Inland) (1 vacancy) | |
HIROA, Piki Te Ora (Tracey) |
Email:
Mobile: 021 027 59983 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Tiikeitia ki Uta (Inland) Ward area. Kaupeka Ki Runga Kaupeka Ki Raro Kui Kui Whiti Whiti Ora E! He uri ahau no nga Iwi nui tonu o Mokai Patea Ko Aorangi Te Maunga Ko Moawhango rahi te awa Ko Moawhango te kainga tuturu I’ve served two terms as a councillor, firstly as a Northern Ward councillor in the 2019 triennium and now currently serving as the incumbent Tiikeitia Ki Uta Maori Ward Councillor. I am a Ngati who is willing, confident, realistic, and connected, to the people who I represent and will continue to advocate inclusion, acceptance, and relevance across the spectrum on behalf of all people who live the Tiikeitia Ki Uta Ward and Rangitikei rohe. I champion a position even when there is opposition, acknowledge the mana of others to build honest and trusting relationships, keep an open mind, with a willingness to build a thriving, healthy, informed and engaged community, where everyone benefits. ** As the number of nominations received did not exceed the number of vacancies, Piki Te Ora (Tracey) HIROA is elected unopposed. |
| Tiikeitia ki Tai (Coastal) (1 vacancy) | |
RAUKAWA, Coral |
Email:
Mobile: 0204 004 7087 Address: My principal place of residence is not in the Tiikeitia ki Tai (Coastal) Ward area. He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata.What is the most important thing in this world? It’s people—always the people. Kia ora - I’m standing again for Council to continue strengthening Maori representation for our people and our place. I’m a proud descendant of Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, and Ngāti Kahungunu. For over 20 years, I’ve worked alongside whānau—supporting rangatahi, the long-term unemployed, and families into training, education, and meaningful jobs. I carry their stories into the council chamber—not just to share but help shape solutions for meaningful change. As your current Māori Ward Councillor and a Whānau Ora advocate, I’ve proudly stood with our Māori whānau and the wider community to represent and serve. I remain committed to equity, opportunity, and progress for all. I also encourage you to vote yes in the Māori Ward referendum. |
YATES, David |
Affiliation: Independent Email: Mobile: 027 392 8525 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Tiikeitia ki Tai (Coastal) Ward area. I am a 76 year young male with free time and the skills to put into working for my constituent’s interests first and region’s second - as the position requires. I am not in this for myself, nor interested in turning the council into something it should never become. We’ve seen years of bad decisions that enrich and favour a few, to the detriment of the many. It is time to turn that around. After years in many positions of responsibility, from joining the NZ Defence Force, 1RNZIR, and being deployed overseas, and at headquarters, salesperson for major retail outlets with the best sales figures year on year, driving tour buses around New Zealand, and more, I have learnt to emphasize and listen to people, stand up for their rights for fair treatment. I will bring service and stability to the ward and council. |
| Ratana Community Board (4 vacancies) | |
HIHIRA, Jason |
Email:
Mobile: 021 256 7770 Address: My principal place of residence is not in the Ratana Community Board area. ** As the number of nominations received did not exceed the number of vacancies, Jason HIHIRA, is elected unopposed. |
LAWRENCE, Ruthie |
Email:
Mobile: 022 375 3556 Address: My principal place of residence is not in the Ratana Community Board area. No Statement Provided. ** As the number of nominations received did not exceed the number of vacancies, Ruthie LAWRENCE, is elected unopposed. |
METE, Charlie |
Email:
Mobile: 027 418 9108 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Ratana Community Board area. No Statement Provided. ** As the number of nominations received did not exceed the number of vacancies, Charlie METE is elected unopposed. |
TAIAROA, Grace Joan |
Email:
Mobile: 027 495 9447 Address: .My principal place of residence is in the Ratana Community Board area. I would be proud to continue to support my community on the Ratana Community Board to ensure the voice of our people is heard at the council table if you our Ratana Residents are happy to bring any concerns, issues or even praises to our table to represent and or support you to address any matters. Ngā manaakitanga o Ihoa o ngā mano ki runga i a tātou. ** As the number of nominations received did not exceed the number of vacancies, Grace Joan TAIAROA is elected unopposed. |
| Taihape Community Board (4 vacancies) | |
CLARK, Caryse |
Email:
Mobile: 022 386 0010 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Taihape Community Board area. Elect Caryse Clark to the Taihape Community Board. I’m Caryse, and I’m running for our local Community Board because I care deeply about the future of Taihape. I have grown up here, I went to Taihape Area School and wish to contribute to my town. I believe in better public spaces, connection between the community board and council, stronger community support, and smarter local planning. I’m committed to being a clear voice for residents, ensuring our concerns are heard and our needs are met with practical, community-led solutions. I believe in transparency, inclusive decision-making, and protecting what makes Taihape special-while also helping it grow in ways that benefit all of us. I will work with integrity, common sense, and heart. Let’s shape the future of Taihape together - one decision, one project, and one conversation at a time. Vote Caryse Clark for Community Board. |
DUNCAN, Gill |
Email:
Mobile: 027 255 1409 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Taihape Community Board area. Completing six years on RDC as a District Councillor, I would like to further contribute to Taihape and wider area through the Taihape Community Board. This locally focused branch of Council enables hands on advocacy for the people who live and work here and this is what drives me: you know what matters and will make both town and country people happier and healthier. This is home. Connections and relationships I have made with you over many years, on Boards and Trusts, and on Council, mean I can use my knowledge and skills to speak up and be heard, on all our behalf, to get the best results. With your endorsement I am pledging to stand up batting for the Northern Ward. |
GREEN, De-Anna |
Email:
Mobile: 021 025 44643 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Taihape Community Board area. Nei rā te mihi kia koutou katoa. Ko De Anna Green tōku ingoa. E noho ana ahau ki Taihape, nō te rohe pōtae o Mōkai Pātea. I’m a 43-year-old proud resident of Taihape, deeply connected to our rural community. My partner and I have two children who attended local schools, which has given me a strong appreciation for quality education, youth opportunities, and community values. With a farming background from my parents, I value the resilience, work ethic, and connection to the land that defines our region. My career spans the shearing industry, hospitality, banking, and now health and social work, providing me with a broad understanding of our local economy. I offer a grounded, community-focused voice—one that values listening, collaboration, and practical solutions. I’m passionate about supporting whānau and advocating for Taihape’s future. With integrity and heart, I’m ready to serve on the Taihape Community Board. |
HADLEY-CHASE, Fiona Kahukura |
Email:
Mobile: 027 357 7255 Address: My principal place of residence is not in the Taihape Community Board area. I am also standing for Mayor for Ruapehu District Council, Ruapehu Māori Ward (Ruapehu District Council) and Taumarunui-Ōhura Community Board (Ruapehu District Council). I am a current Ruapehu District Councillor. I love politics, I love home and I want to use my skills and passion to better the community of Taihape. |
KIPLING-ARTHUR, Peter |
Affiliation: Working for the District Email: Mobile: 021 023 39254 Address: My principal place of residence is in the Taihape Community Board area. I am also standing for Northern Ward. As chair of the Taihape Community Board in the last three years I ensured a voice for the wider community in the Northern Ward. If elected a councillor, I will continue to advocate for the needs of Rangitikei. My focus remains on community engagement and creating a better district. Rangitikei has key issues facing it in the current economic climate. Working together, we can make the most of many opportunities in our region. I was born and educated in Taihape. After work in education, hospitality and management, I retired to my hometown. Currently involved in the Taihape Museum, Taihape Neighborhood Support plus e working closely with others to preserve our Grandstand and Town Hall. I will continue working for the benefit of a town and district that gave much to my family. I will be a voice for the Ward; with positive communication with stakeholders and be accountable for decisions. |
PERA, Melanie |
Email:
Mobile: 020 427 0522 Address: Ko Melanie taku ingoa. My principal place of residence is in the Taihape Community Board area. Ko Melanie taku ingoa Ko Ngapuhi te Iwi, he uri au a Rahiri, no te norta Ko au te potiki a Joe raua ko Anipaki Pera E noho ana au ki Mataroa Ko Alan taku hoatane Ko Joseph, ko Nico oku tama E tu ana au mo te Poari Hapori O’Taihape. I have spent all but two of my 47 years living in the Taihape area, my siblings, my children and I all attended local Schools. I am currently employed at Mokai Patea Services and provide administration support for other community groups. This is a new pathway for me that I would never have considered previously, so with support from the whanau whanui. I am stepping out of my comfort zone. I will bring an open mind, a different point of view, a heart for the community, a little bit of fun, and always be my authentic self. |