Appealing to all residents.
We asked Waitomo’s mayoral candidates what three top priorities would from their 100-day plan if they are elected on Saturday.
Waitomo mayoral candidates, from left, John Robertson, Natasha Willison-Reardon, Janette Osborne and Richard Ross. Photo: Chris Gardner
Mayor John Robertson said he would bring the newly elected council into a cohesive governance team.
“Without good relationships around the table, we will not deliver outcomes the community deserves. This would include holding a strategy day with all elected members to determine priorities and to get members to consider what they want to achieve. So, setting elected member priorities for the three years ahead.”
Robertson said he would have an induction programme for new members so that they get up to speed with council operations quickly.
“Establish sub-committees of council. Relay to the chief executive the priorities of the new council, and set expectations and key performance indicators for him.”
He would also provide oversight of key projects that the council has underway, including the establishment of the new regional water company Waikato Water Ltd.
“Build relationships with key stakeholders for projects that I have indicated as priorities in the campaign, including an industrial park/employment hub in Te Kuiti by the aerodrome. Build a relationship with the incoming mayor of Ōtorohanga to explore how the two councils could combine services to save costs for ratepayers, and perhaps even to come together into one strengthened King Country Council.”
Sitting Waitomo urban councillor Janette Osborne listed team building at the top of her list.
“Meeting as a group as soon as possible to introduce ourselves to each other and share our values and what we would each like to achieve during the term,” she said.
“To talk about how we would like to work together and what we each bring to the table. This would be followed by one on one sessions to drill into specific areas of interest before coming back together as a group and working through feedback. Also meeting with our neighbouring councillors at Ōtorohanga to start building relationships given we already have a number of shared services.”
Education was second on Osborne’s list.
“Where to find the information, who can help – the free online learning through Local Government New Zealand,” she said.
“How do we best ensure everyone gets all the information they need. Do we have regular group learning sessions like some other councils do?”
Third up was understanding the district.
“Getting out across the district and understanding council assets and the communities we serve. Starting a round of visits to businesses across the district.”
Council staff member turned mayoral hopeful Richard Ross said he would pause and review planned works.
“I will review upcoming projects and programmes to ensure they deliver real value to ratepayers,” he said.
“Do we need them and do we need them now? Priority will be given to programmed maintenance of existing assets before committing to new projects.
Smarter spending was second on Ross’s list.
“I will examine operational and capital expenditure to identify areas for savings and introduce a more risk-adverse model for spending processes. Ratepayers deserve transparency and value for every dollar spent.”
A locals first policy was his third priority.
“Council spending should support local businesses wherever possible. I will review procurement policies and procedures to establish a Locals First approach, strengthening our local economy and jobs,” he said
“Real change takes time, but these first steps will set the direction and tone of my leadership as mayor. A council that works responsibly and in the best interests of our community.
Natasha Willison-Reardon said her mayoral term begin by ensuring every voice was heard through hui in Te Kūiti, Piopio, Benneydale, Mokau, Marokopa, Tahāroa, Te Maika and other communities.
“Urban and rural, young and old, everyone deserves to shape the future of council decisions,” she said.
Her second priority was reviewing council finances.
“People want to know where their rates are spent, what value is being delivered, and how we plan for the future. This transparency is about building trust and giving ratepayers confidence that their contributions are respected,” she said.
“Another key action will be beginning the process for Māori wards, which I see not as a choice but as a right under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. True representation means ensuring all voices are at the council table. At the same time, I will start a district-wide conversation about housing, infrastructure, and opportunities for jobs, businesses, and community needs assessment.”
