Trewavas confirmed for fourth term
A ‘great mix of experienced councillors and new faces’
The final votes have been counted for the Taupō District Council elections. There is no change to the make-up of the council from the progress results published last week.
In the mayoral race David Trewavas received a final count of 6601 votes, while Christine Rankin and Sean Wakelin, finished on 4762 and 1205 votes respectively.
Trewavas says it is a great mix of experienced councillors and new faces.
“They come from all walks of life which helps ensure a balance of stability and fresh ideas.
“Just like in previous years, we won’t always agree on everything, but robust, respectful and constructive discussion is all part of the process.”
The seven successful candidates for the Taupō ward are Christine Rankin 5447 votes, Yvonne Westerman5240, Kevin Taylor 4684, Anna Park 3844, John Williamson 3706, Rachel Shepherd 3573 and Duncan Campbell 3344.
In the new Te Papamā rearea Mā ori ward, Karam Fletcher 617 and Danny Aperahama Loughlin 555 are the successful candidates.
Kylie Leonard for the Taupō East Rural ward and Kirsty Trueman for the Mangakino-Pouakani ward were both re-elected unopposed.
The successful candidate for the Tūrangi-Tongariro ward is Sandra Greenslade.
New councillor Karam Fletcher is one of the first councillors elected to
represent Te Papamārearea Māori ward.
“I’m incredibly humbled and I’m also mindful that this is my first time standing. To get in on the first go obviously means there is a wealth of support behind me and that definitely doesn’t go unnoticed. I’m excited about the prospect of working with the other successful candidates over the next three years.
“I’ve always said it’s important to have Māori representation at the decision-making table and the Māori ward is a step in allowing that to happen. I do believe as a council we are already moving forward with the likes of the co-governance agreement with Ngāti Tūrangitukua. Ultimately, it’s what is best for our community, ensuring everyone is represented.”
Another new face at the council table is Rachel Shepherd who says she was “really excited but also a bit nervous as well”. “I take the position really seriously, the responsibility of it. It was nervous excitement.
The elected members came into office on Saturday, October 15, but can’t act until they make a formal declarations at the first council meeting on October 27.