My wife and I have recently returned to Taranaki and are building our new home on the family farm at Onaero.
I'm a passionate advocate for freedom and property rights. Too often, those in public office act as though they have a greater claim over our lives and property than we do - I stand firmly against this.
I want Council to reduce wasteful spending and focus on delivering affordable, high-quality core services.
Decisions must reflect the reality that most people simply want to enjoy their lives and property in peace.
Having recently retired as General Manager of a company operating major hazard facilities, and having served as chairman of a School Board, I bring strong governance and leadership experience.
I'm committed to working collaboratively with fellow Councillors to ensure decisions are guided by common sense, responsibility, and a clear focus on making our district a great place to live.
Yes
What?
Council must be unrelenting in identifying and implementing cost savings to reduce the rates burden. Get back to basics, prioritize efficiency, and stay focused on its core role.
No
What?
Local businesses are the real engine room of innovation and growth in our community—not government. Council must actively remove barriers to growth and make it easier to start and grow businesses here. That means less red tape and get out of the way.
Yes
Why?
Enforce existing bylaws. Repeated behaviour should prompt a form of institutionalized rehabilitation. Council and ratepayers must avoid taking on responsibilities and costs that belong to central government.
No
Why?
I would prefer Council retain direct control. I would be uncomfortable that a CCO would operate at arm’s length from elected Councillors.
No
Why?
Council must not increase that which is unaffordable.
No
Why?
Council debt is already too high, and ratepayers are feeling the pressure through rising rates. Council should prioritize essential infrastructure — like roads, water, and waste.
No
Why?
Council’s priority should be maintaining and improving existing roads, footpaths, and infrastructure — not investing in high-cost, low-use projects.
Remove
Why?
I am uncomfortable with dividing representation along cultural lines.
Concentrate on delivering high-quality, essential core services like reliable roads, clean water, and efficient waste management. These are the basics that event organizers and visitors expect.
1. My top priority is ensuring NPDC delivers essential services with spending and debt kept under control. 2. Create an environment where local businesses and residents can thrive without unnecessary regulation or interference.
