Definitive victory for new Clutha mayor

New Clutha District Mayor Jock Martin celebrates his victory at his Lawrence home on Saturday...
New Clutha District Mayor Jock Martin celebrates his victory at his Lawrence home on Saturday afternoon, with wife Marie, and grandsons Cooper, 8, and Parker Martin, 5. Photo: Richard Davison
Clutha residents have voted for a new mayoral broom, after a definitive win for single-term councillor Jock Martin. 

Mr Martin defeats outgoing deputy mayor Ken Payne by 3206 votes to 1787, in progress results released this afternoon. 

Mr Payne will also exit the council after three terms, after standing for mayor only. 

Relaxing at his rural Lawrence home with family, friends and supporters following the result, Mr Martin said he looked forward to serving the district that had “been kind to [him]”. 

“I’ve really enjoyed the campaign, and getting to meet so many beautiful people throughout the district. Talking to residents has kept me grounded, as you need to stop and do the listening, and understand what people want. 

“This district has been kind to me down the years, giving me a lot with my family, work and grandchildren, and I’ve got plenty of gas left in the tank to give a little back. 

The shearing contractor thanked supporters, and wife Marie in particular. 

“We’re just everyday, down to earth people. We were pretty relaxed, joking around with whānau this morning, than I gave Marie a big hug when we got the news after lunch. 

He said his election had been a “vote for change.” 

“All I spoke to wanted change. We need to engage with and mobilise the people to bring about that change, to challenge tradition where necessary, and to weave communities and council back together.” 

He credited fellow mayoral contender Ken Payne for a “good faith” campaign. 

“Ken’s a good man who I’ve known for a very long time. We were campaigning on two different platforms, and that’s been the difference this election. 

Mr Payne said he had “enjoyed the battle with Mr Martin. 

“It’s been a thrashing [from Jock], but I congratulate him, and will continue to contribute to the community where it’s needed. I put my best foot forward. People wanted change.” 

Mr Payne said he would not stand for council again in future. 

Among councillors, some seats remain too close to call until votes are finalised. 

Newcomer Brendon Smith takes one of two seats for the Balclutha Ward (669 votes), but a second seat could go to either of two fellow newcomers, Ruth Baldwin (486) or Rachel Harrison (482). 

Similarly, in the reshaped Bruce-Waihola Ward, incumbent councillor Gaynor Finch (249) has only three votes over fellow incumbent Dean McCrostie (246) at this progress stage. 

Three wards were uncontested on the new look, 10-seat council.