‘So much potential’

Tania McInnes, 46, Far North District Deputy Mayor, director of Breakthrough Seminars, lives in Paihia.

What do you like about the Far North?

The strength of the environment and the people. We’ve so much potential. I love that I can walk along the beach first thing in the morning. And that sense of belonging in a small community.

How long have you lived here and where are you originally from?

I was born in the Waikato and moved to Russell when I was four. I’ve lived in the Bay of Islands for more than 35 years.

What do you like least and how can we fix it?

The lack of unity. We’re all in this together. We need to grow our sense of respect for each other...to celebrate our diversity. We’re very quick to see the negative. It’s up to all of us if we’re to change the way we’re perceived.

What’s your favourite eatery?

I love food and I love to cook so often it’s my house. We’re blessed with amazing eateries. Russell has fantastic places to eat and so does Kerikeri. It’s getting better and better.

Your highlight of the week?

Taking my daughter over to the Hokianga and visiting Tane Mahuta. It was her birthday present. And I’m privileged to meet people in the community doing amazing things. They’re giving back. That’s a weekly thing.

Who is the Kiwi you most admire?

I’m often inspired by people in the community that are giving up their time when they don’t have much themselves. People with passion.

The spot in Northland I’d recommend is…

Hokianga and Mahinepua are beautiful. The Far North is full of magic, secret places and we just need to get out and explore.

If I were the Far North mayor I’d...

I would continue to encourage and empower communities to take responsibility and take