As the current Chair of Waikato Regional Council, I provide a strong, collaborative voice for rural and regional communities
I AM COMMITTED TO...
Championing sustainable regional progress and collaborative leadership for a thriving, connected Waikato.
Championing sustainable regional progress through collaborative leadership
As Chair of Waikato Regional Council, I have delivered transformative, collaborative leadership focused on balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Over the past triennium, I’ve helped advance critical infrastructure, empowered rural communities, and safeguarded natural resources while navigating complex legislative frameworks.
I'm committed to transparent, inclusion decision-making that actively seeks community input, ensuring policies reflect the needs and aspirations of all residents.
Collaborative leadership is the catalyst for the Waikato's long-term growth and prosperity.
Ensuring our rural communities are connected so our people can grow
Our connections within the region are what make us thrive as communities. Removing barriers to these connections, particularly through quality infrastructure and public transport, contributes to the health and well-being of a vibrant region.
Over the past 3 years I've pushed for more effective public transport - both buses and Te Huia's Hamilton to Auckland train service - for our rural communities to our urban centres. This is enabling people in our community to access amenities and facilities, education, economic endeavour, and social connections broader than their local community.
I've also lobbied hard to secure central Government funding to invest in critical flood management infrastructure projects in the Waikato, including 4 in our constituency. The projects will improve community resilience against extreme weather events.
I'm a fervent believer that a strong Waikato is a strong Hamilton and a strong Hamilton is a strong Waikato. A strong region relies on connectivity, both physical and virtual. Inherent in this is people being able to easily, economically, and effectively move through the region, and between regions.
Growing strong rural communities for today's generation and tomorrow's
I support the growth and development of our rural communities, alongside our urban neighbours, while remaining focused on the sustainability of that development.
It is essential that our rural town centres and communities are able to offer employment and economic endeavour to support the wellbeing and connectedness of our communities throughout the Waikato. Strong rural communities that offer job opportunities support cohesive and connected schools and community groups which are the creative nexus of linking geographically dispersed residents.
I want to see the region offer you and your whānau the support that allows you to feel this is your home.
Preserving and protecting our region and its treasures for the future
I'm proud to have championed initiatives in the Long Term Plan that directly address the urgent challenges posed by climate change, including increased flooding and environmental degradation. I have helped secure vital investment in flood management infrastructure.
A passionate advocate for the protection and restoration of our region’s unique natural habitats, I've worked hard to ensure council policies and funding priorities align with biodiversity and water quality goals, supporting landscape-scale projects that restore native ecosystems and safeguard endangered species. Under my leadership, Council has significantly boosted support for community-led conservation efforts, empowering local groups to take action in their own backyards and fostering true partnerships for long-term environmental health.
Preserving and protecting our treasures for the future
Rural communities are the backbone of the Waikato’s economy and cultural identity. I'm deeply committed to supporting these areas, advocating for vital infrastructure improvements and enhanced services that strengthen rural life and foster greater connectivity with urban centres. Whether it’s better roads or improved public transport, I understand that robust infrastructure is essential for rural families, businesses, and the future prosperity of the entire region.
As a farmer myself, I'm a strong champion for sustainable agriculture and rural economic development, recognising that the health of our land and waterways is inseparable from the success of our farming communities.
I want to ensure our rural areas remain vibrant and resilient.