2025 Local Election: District Councillor Profiles

Candidate Profile

Like most places around the country, we are facing affordability pressures as well as social and infrastructural challenges. I am committed to find that balance between affordability and delivery of both social and infrastructural initiatives needed to create the foundation required to sustain the communities on the Coromandel that make this place such great place to live.

I am a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with over 35 years in finance and managerial roles in both the private sector and local government with considerable experience in: strategic planning; risk identification and mitigation; financial reporting & forecasting; procurement; programme and project management.

We came to the Thames Coast nearly 19 years ago for a short stint, haven't seen a reason to leave yet - why would you!

This is such a great place to live work and play. I’m standing to do what I can to ensure it stays that way.

Phone: 021926594

Candidate Profile

Thames ward is my principle place of residence.

Moving from Franklin to live in Kopu, my wife and I love the uncongested peaceful and friendliness of the area but, as a ratepayer, I also feel the pinch of rising costs and want council to perform better, not just spend more of our money.

After 43 years in business across food production, mechanical and construction I will bring to council a strong set of governance skills which include staff management, financial management and practical problem Solving.

As a councillor I will work hard to, stop the rates spiral and ensure that every dollar spent is transparent and delivers best value. Focus on quality and cost-effective management of roads, water and waste. Do the basics well and be proud of our beautiful environment and a tidy district.

For better council Vote for Scotty.

Candidate Profile

I'm excited to stand for election as the Thames Ward Councillor, with a vision of a vibrant, community-focused future that empowers us all to build a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Thames together.

Growing up in Coromandel and then Thames as a teenager, I attended Thames High School. I am a mother of two intermediate-age girls at St. Francis School, and Chair of Creative Coromandel/He Mana Toi Moehau Trust, where I have made a positive impact on our region's economic output and social well-being.

With 30 years of experience as a business owner, employer, and leader in the arts sector, I bring a combination of business management skills, community development experience, and governance expertise.

I commit to building strong collaborative relationships and communicating effectively. I am here to achieve sustainable solutions that balance economic prosperity, environmental quality, and social cohesion.

I possess the skills and will work hard for you.

E-mail: fionaccameron1974@gmail.com

Candidate Profile

I care about community, and I’m stepping up to help. With years of public service, business experience, and deep knowledge of local government, I bring a broad skill set and a proven track record of getting things done.

I believe in genuine community engagement and decision-making that balances the diverse needs of our people. My priorities are clear: responsible spending, transparent governance, and strong advocacy for Thames at district level.

I support a no-frills, fit-for-purpose council that delivers essential services efficiently while keeping rate increases to a minimum. We face real financial pressures and environmental challenges, we must live within our means and plan wisely.

Activating the Kopu business precinct and supporting further housing development is vital to our economy. Strategic partnerships with iwi, government, and others will be key.

I’m here to deliver what matters to you, with integrity and a focus on a sustainable, prosperous future for all.

Candidate Profile

An Ecology Architect fusing together Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Systems Ecology and Planning.

My personality being frank, blunt, honest and a person that stands up will be evident.

Working for several city councils and corporates at high level, leading teams.

I focussed in Policy, Stormwater, Sewage and Solid Waste, Planning and Building knowing we can save millions. I have steered a number of community-based NGOs involving myself in many political issues from a community standpoint, instigating and facilitating workshops.

I will draw out the abundance of intellect and skill sets from our people of Coromandel through weekly brainstorming, open to all. The people will govern. The building and planning processes will be overhauled to ensure maximum efficiency. All accounts will undergo full open public audits for absolute accountability.

Martina and our four girls live in our 13 acre garden at Puriri offering workshops on an array of topics.

Phone: 0220756211
E-mail: stevenlawrencehart@gmail.com

Candidate Profile

My name is Cole McDowell and I would be honoured to represent you in the Thames General Ward.

I’m not your usual candidate.

I’m 27 years old, I was born and raised and completed my schooling in Thames, as did my parents. After 8 years in the NAVY, early in 2024, my wife and our son and I moved back to Thames where we purchased our home.

I currently work as an electrician where I get to engage with many people throughout our community and this is useful in determining public attitudes towards local affairs. I will ensure common concerns and issues are heard loud and clear in our Council.

As a Councillor I would bring skills used throughout the RNZN and Trades to Council - discipline, accountability, honesty, transparency, structure and logic to help support and grow the area we call home.

Choose Motivation, Choose Youth, Choose Me.

Candidate Profile

'A common-sense approach'.

I appreciate your support in the last election. It's been a privilege to serve on the TCB, and I'm now standing for Thames Ward Councillor to continue delivering transparent, accountable, and community-focused leadership.

A councillor plays a crucial role as the bridge between our community and the council, ensuring Thames is heard where it counts.

My key priorities - wise and practical use of ratepayer fund, strong support for local businesses and events, backing key projects - the new Thames swimming pool, housing development and airfield expansion.

Being approachable and open to your ideas.

Thames has been my home for over 16 years. I bring 34+ years of culinary and business experience, 17 years of community volunteering, and a family involved in health and service.

I'm committed to using my experience to build a better, stronger Thames for all.

Candidate Profile

Since 2019, I've had the privilege of serving as a TCDC District Councillor, advocating for community-led decision-making, climate action and a more inclusive, future-focused Council. And I'm keen to continue.

We'll have serious issues to consider next term, including the Waters & other Government Reforms, which is why experience, continuity, and constructive existing relationships matter. I'm committed to listening and collaborating with others to benefit our District.

Progress on housing for our Thames workforce remains challenging, but I've strongly pushed for the Thames, and District Spatial Plans, to guide smart, sustainable development that meets our community's needs.

Support for arts, local events, and heritage is my passion, working with Thames MAD, Thames Heritage Network and other community initiatives. I've also backed the Explore Thames campaign to promote our town as a vibrant unique place to visit.

Vote Martin Rodley - experienced, engaged, and ready to keep making a positive difference.

Phone: 0272555380
E-mail: martin.rodley@gmail.com

Candidate Profile

Thames and the district deserve strong, continuous leadership and representation. For 6 years I've had my ear to the ground reliably representing our communities at council. I changed how the community board is available through instigating a Saturday market stall; I've attended your AGMs, been at your events.

In my time on council I've fought for progress in housing at Totara Valley, and other local projects. I chaired the sustainability committee towards a climate action plan and I'll continue while also advocating for foreshore protection and resilience, sensible road speeds, genuine inclusion and transparency. I'm passionate about Thames and our role as part of this district. No community can do anything alone so having a collaborative district-wide attitude is necessary. Local government is changing and I'd be honoured to continue as your reliable and experienced councillor to front foot it and to engage with you.

Re-elect Robyn Sinclair.

Phone: 0277337203
E-mail: sinclair.thames@gmail.com

Candidate Profile

The Southeastern Ward - needs real leadership, not feel-good fluff.

After three years as Deputy Chair of the Community Board, I’ve seen first-hand how weak decision-making and woke agendas have replaced common sense. It’s time to stop the waste, stop the spin, and get back to basics. Fix the roads. Collect the rubbish. Spend our money where it matters.

I’ve run businesses for over 25 years and worked with Beach Hop, the Business Association, and Community Patrol - I know how to make things happen.

I’m standing for Council because the Southeastern Ward deserves a voice that’s actually heard in Thames, not ignored. No more silent nodding or rubber-stamping - our communities need action, not more reports and talkfests. I’ll fight for ratepayers, push back on wasteful spending, and make sure the people - not the loud minority - are heard.

If you’re tired of the rubbish, I’m your guy.

Candidate Profile

I have learnt a lot about how Council works over the last three years being on the Whangamatā Community Board. I live in Whangamatā with my wife Sue. I am a retired civil engineer. I was the Chief Executive of the New Zealand entity of one of the largest global engineering and environmental consultancies at that time.

I enjoy the natural and built environmental that we live in and would like to have a role in ensuring that future generations have the same opportunity. With climate change and an increasing and hugely variable population, our communities have many challenges. We can't afford everything that we want or need - so we have to prioritise, listening to and working with the wider community.

I enjoy working with people and believe that I can contribute to positive outcomes with my broad engineering and environmental experience combined with leadership and management skills.

Candidate Profile

I am standing for Council because I believe the Council needs people who will question and challenge the status quo. Annual rate rises are simply unacceptable.

I have gained experience on the Whangamata Community Board over the last 3 years. It has often been an exercise in futility, particularly at times when Council disregards Community Board decisions.

I want to see Community Boards empowered so they can effectively advocate foor local community issues.

I know have some knowledge of how local government works. I believe I can lead with honesty, transparency, and accountability. I can stand firm on my values even under pressure.

As a lawyer I have significant experience as a mediator, particularly for non profit organisations. I believe in fighting for the issues rather than fighting people.

Phone: 021035223
E-mail: neilevansauthor@gmail.com

Candidate Profile

My objective is to be an effective representative on Council and Community Boards for Tairua, Pauanui, Hikuai, Opotuere, Onemana and Whangamata, encompassing reasoned, experienced representation on district policies and decisions.

I will advocate people are the heart of my “Communities Matter” strategy, with planned action on critical issues – community wellbeing, water, roads, rubbish – ensuring engagement determining priorities.

We must move forward, the current model must change, relieving cost pressure on ratepayers, those living, working and doing business within the district.

I bring a wide skill set to this public role, a permanent resident, having been a member of a residents association, a Trustee of the Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust, Whangamata Community Patrol, Whangamata Golf Club and Whangamata RSA member.

Senior roles with Independent Newspapers Limited and News Limited, Air New Zealand, and in sport in New Zealand – providing the experience and knowledge to appropriately govern Council.

Phone: 0274839426
E-mail: johnfreer07@gmail.com

Candidate Profile

As a Tairua resident of four years with my family, we have settled and are enjoying making this home. Previously I’ve served on school boards for a large high school, and sizeable primary, leading policy creation, finance portfolios, and working on long-term planning.

As an active member and brigade secretary of the Tairua Volunteer Fire Brigade and member of the Tairua Pauanui Sports Fishing Club, I enjoy the community spirit of our towns and understand their local needs. My career as an IT contractor in hospitality has given me first hand insight into the challenges facing our peninsula’s businesses.

I’ll champion transparency with council expenditure, reviewing budgets with rigor, and ensuring fair assignment of ratepayer funds, supporting local businesses to build a thriving and sustainable future, I’m committed to representing the coast’s voice, Tairua, Pauanui, Whangamata and the small settlements in the South Eastern Ward.

Candidate Profile

I've lived in Tairua 23 years, raised three kids - two attended WAS - and was editor of the local newspaper HC Post for four years.

I helped get Tairua skatepark build and championed many community causes, winning a national journalism award for advocating protection of pink maomao fish.

I stand for transparent, community-driven decision making delivering value for ratepayers - most of whom juggle unsustainable costs. As a lifelong surfer, volunteer and recent spearfisher, I understand the importance of our precious coastline to locals and bach owners alike.

I work part-time in environmental impact and seaweed restoration, bring 30 years' local government experience across reporting, advocacy and engagement.

I'm strategic, I listen, and I communicate with respect. We need leadership that navigates differences without losing sight of our shared values. I love this place and I'll work hard to preserve what makes it special while planning for what's ahead.

Candidate Profile

I live in Whangapoua with my wife Wanda. I served as a District Councillor from 2010-2019, including as Chair of the Infrastructure Committee and Deputy Mayor. Between 2010 and 2013, we reduced rates by 4.5% - a major turnaround from the forecast 21% increase. We cut spending and borrowing, improved efficiency, and implemented a Community Empowerment model, giving Community Boards more local decision-making power.

Those gains have since been lost. During a cost-of-living crisis, rates and borrowing are skyrocketing, bureaucracy is unchecked, and communities have lost their voice. I know what's required to turn this around.

Real change is needed. I will bring experienced leadership and practical solutions. My engineering background enables me to solve problems, think outside the square, and focus on getting the basics right.

I will work to cap rates, drive efficiencies, reduce borrowing, prioritise core services, increase transparency, and restore local democracy by decentralising council decision-making.

Phone: 078667731
E-mail: tb777@xtra.co.nz

Candidate Profile

I've been privileged to reside in Mercury Bay for the past 42 years and have been an elected member for 12 years. I have a background in programme management and have worked in both government and non-government organisations with a lens on sustainable development.

I am well-equipped in strategic planning, budget management and community engagement having facilitated projects showcased at a National and International level.

I have been a representative on the Hauraki Gulf Forum, Destination Hauraki Coromandel Advisory panel, stormwater stakeholder groups and the Sustainability and Community Resilience Committee.

I am active in my community attending the vast majority of ratepayer meetings. I spend time in all corners of the Ward, often on my bike, supporting local cafes, checking out infrastructure and, most importantly, talking with locals.

I have made many connections and am a conduit for the issues and aspirations of each unique community.

Phone: 0273835124
E-mail: deli.connell@hotmail.co.nz

Candidate Profile

Planning for and managing Mercury Bay's growth motivated me to stand for the Community Board, where I served two terms. I am currently a District Councillor.

Reforms in local waters and resource management, coupled with the rising costs of doing business, weigh heavily on councils. The incoming Council will need to navigate these challenges while maintain business as usual.

Experience, an understanding of local government, and a commitment to avoiding wasteful spending are essential for moving our Council forward at this critical time.

My husband and I run a residential building business in Whitianga, where our children attend school. I am deeply invested in making our district the best place to live, work, and play.

I'm asking for your support to continue working for our community. I bring corporate experience in construction, engineering, oil and gas, and I hold a Bachelor of International Communication and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business.

E-mail: rekgiri@hotmail.com

Candidate Profile

John Grant, Leadership That Listens and Delivers

I've been honoured to serve as your Mercury Bay Councillor. Fought to ease the pressure on households, helping reduce a proposed 11.4% rate hike to 7.7% and cutting unnecessary spending like the extravagant 'Our Coromandel' magazine. Supported strong Community Board candidates who stand up for locals ensuring your voice reaches the Council table.

When 5000 people signed a petition against sweeping fishing restrictions, I proudly lead that charge - striking a better balance between protecting our environment and safeguarding our way of life.

As part of Council's Water Services Working Group, I’m working across councils to bring down water costs for ratepayers.

My priorities, simple but essential: roads, water, rubbish services - delivered affordably. I support pausing non-essential projects, encouraging developer initiatives, and making council more responsive and locally driven.

Vote John Grant, for strong, practical leadership that puts our communities first

Phone: 021351922
E-mail: jgrant@vcs.co.nz

Candidate Profile

LLB, MBA, B.Com

I live in Kuaotunu, practice law, and have proven, successful business and leadership experience.

Status Quo - Not an Option: We have endured three years of unaffordable, unsustainable rate increases exceeding 36%, planned debt tripling, quadrupling of interest costs, and a lack of transparency and accountability. Our increased bureaucracy, like rust, does not sleep.

Change Required: I bring a results-focused, no-nonsense approach to governance and leadership, anchored in financial, business and legal acumen. We face significant challenges. Difficult calls are required. TCDC must be put on a disciplined, fiscally sustainable path.

I Stand For: Accountability. Common sense. Back-to-Basics. Transparency.

I Will Deliver: Ratepayer Value: Relentless focus on Council's core purpose, business and spending.

Fiscal Prudence: Limit annual rate increases to 3% or CPI.

Local Empowerment: Cost-benefit-accessed services funded by local targeted rates.

Vote for a welcome departure from mediocracy. Vote for me.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/flemming-h-rasmussen-7754842/

Phone: 021594705
E-mail: flemming@mountwilliam.co.nz

Candidate Profile

Born 1937. Past L.G. experience: Two terms as Councillor for Thames, Three terms on Thames Community Board. Two terms on the Coromandel catchment committee for Waikato Regional Council. A term as Chair of TCDC utilities committee. Forty-six years as a primary school teacher in various areas.

I believe in transparent discussion not closed meetings. With no computer I will expect hardcopy of the order paper etc. As the only powers a CBD has are those delegated by Council.

I promote advocacy from discussion and consensus to TCDC via our councillors.

All meetings should be transparent. Access to CBD meetings by ratepayers and groups is encouraged.

I do my homework.

Phone: 078682262

Candidate Profile

I am a local resident, ratepayer and businessman. I am a registered electrician and worked for many years within the high voltage industry. I came up through the ranks to executive management positions within large electricity contracting companies before venturing into the retail trade. I understand staffing and management, budgets, cashflow, value for money, customer service and making the hard, but right, decisions.

My platform is based on honesty, openness, transparency, communication, collaboration, fiscal prudence, accountability, and doing the basics well. I will act responsibly and in the best interests of both the community that I represent, and the Coromandel Peninsula.

Phone: 0275927180
E-mail: rjashman@xtra.co.nz

Candidate Profile

My name is John Morrissey. I have been a resident of Coromandel along with my wife and three children for thirty-three years. My background is forty years policing, twenty seven of them as the Coromandel Constable.

I have completed four terms as your councillor and one term on the community board. I am really invested in this community. During my terms we have seen the widening of Rings Road, larger capacity reservoir, bike park, renewal of Hauraki House playground and soon resealing of the carpark there after we acquired the land from the MOE to name just a few.

Coromandel is the smallest, poorest ward on the peninsula with only one councillor representing us. A strong voice and the ability to work with other councillors to achieve success is required.

I believe that I have the experience, knowledge and skillset to successfully achieve the best outcomes for our community.

Phone: 0272452700
E-mail: hornet8326@gmail.com

Candidate Profile

Ko wai au? He uri tēnei nō Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Hikairo, me Ngā Puhi. Ko Michael Barlow ahau. Tihei Mauri Ora!

I’m honoured to represent our whānau and communities in the Te Tara o Te Ika Māori Ward. As a proud descendant of Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Hikairo, and Ngā Puhi, I bring deep roots, lived experience, and a strong commitment to community-led governance.

With over two decades in frontline operations and leadership across Kura, Kōhanga Reo, and not-for-profits, I’m focused on practical service and building strong relationships. In this inaugural term, I’ll work in partnership with iwi, hapū, and local organisations to ensure tikanga, priorities, and aspirations are reflected in council decisions.  I have a passion for community and believe in the power of people coming together to create lasting change. Together, we can build a future that honours our past, embraces innovation, and strengthens the connectedness across generations.