Tourism looms as challenge for district

There’s a hint of regret but also relief that not enough candidates came forward to contest two of the three wards for the MatamataPiako District Council elections this year.

There will be no election in the Morrinsville or Te Aroha wards as the number of candidates is equal to the number of seats.

Incumbent mayor Jan Barnes also returns to office unopposed, with no one game enough to challenge her for the district’s top job.

Returning Morrinsville Ward councillor Neil Goodger says he was surprised and a bit disappointed that people were taking no interest in the election.

But Te Aroha Ward councillor Teena Cornes, who also steps back in unopposed, said the reason she felt no one stood against her and her two fellow councillors Peter Jager and Ash Tanner was simple.

‘‘People were not worried because we haven’t given them a reason to be,’’ said Cornes.

‘‘It’s indicative we have listened, advocated for our community, taken on board and acted on what people have wanted and I like to think we have done a pretty good job.’’

Cornes says this will be her last term and is looking forward to new challenges.

‘‘Our growing tourism opportunities will be key to driving our local economy and its important we make sure everything is in place for those who want to come to Te Aroha to live work and play in our town.’’

Neil Goodger was noncommittal as to how long he’s prepared to stay on as a councillor for Morrinsville.

Although he lost out in his bid for the mayoralty in 2013 he hasn’t discounted having another run for it in the future.

‘‘Wise counsel told me to leave it alone this time round as Jan [Barnes] couldn’t be toppled as she has certainly put the effort into her first term.

‘‘Jan has made her self accessible and responsive to the public.’’

He is looking forward to the two big challenges he and the other ward councillors face.

‘‘Water is our biggest issue and we have to have adequate storage levels,’’ he said.

The second, Goodger says, is finding a resolution for the stormwater systems, this is a big issue for developers and commercial expansion.

Morrinsville too is challenged with population growth but provisions are in place for housing development.