What are your priorities for the year ahead?
Our top priorities are securing approval for the water services delivery plan and navigating local government reform, alongside developing our long-term plan and managing day-to-day operations. Affordability will remain front of mind, which means making some tough but necessary decisions.
What opportunities do you see in the year to come?
Change always brings opportunity. This year’s focus on the future structure of local government gives us a rare chance to rethink how we serve our community and make council more agile and fit for purpose. In a cost-of-living crisis, this is an important chance to reset and ensure we’re delivering real value.
What challenges do you see?
The biggest challenge is the sheer scale and speed of change. Tight timeframes, complex policy shifts, and the need for genuine engagement with our community, neighbouring councils and iwi make this a demanding task. Getting it right is critical.
How do you plan to navigate these?
Collaboration will be key. We’ll work closely with community focus groups, Otago and Canterbury mayoral forums and local iwi to explore options and understand implications. This approach will ensure informed, transparent conversations and decisions that reflect the needs of our district.
What New Year's resolutions do you have for yourself . . .?
Personally, I want to prioritise fitness because I’m at my best when I feel strong and healthy.
...and your district... ?
For Waitaki, my resolution is stability — change can be unsettling, and we need to manage it well.
...and your council?
For council, I want to foster clear, positive leadership and build a strong, united team where everyone has a voice.
How did you spend your holiday break?
I enjoyed a relaxing break close to home with family and friends — lots of biking and paddleboarding around Oamaru Harbour. It was a great way to recharge and start the year feeling refreshed.
Is there anything else about the coming year you'd like to add?
There’s a lot to look forward to! Our new events centre, the Forrester Gallery extension, and the Kakanui Bridge are all nearing completion. These projects are a real boost for our district, and despite all the uncertainty I’m excited for an action-packed year ahead.
