Otago Regional Council
The Otago Regional Council makes decisions about managing resources in the region, such as air, water, soil and the coastline. It also carries out plant and pest control, helps prepare for natural disasters, and is involved in regional transport. The council is made up of 11 councillors. Councillors are elected to represent constituencies (areas in the region). Three councillors will be elected from the Dunstan constituency. This is a first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Otago Regional Council election.
Otago Regional Council candidates
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Mike Barker
Why I'm standing
I have been frustrated with internal squabbles between Otago Regional Councillors delaying important decisions on environmental planning. I have been disappointed by the degrading of Central Otago lakes and rivers and the seeming inability of the Otago Regional Council to manage this. Environmental monitoring of our lakes, rivers and the coastal zone has been poor. I would like the Otago Regional Council to gather better baseline data on these natural resources.
About me
I am a retired marine scientist having spent most of my academic career in the departments of Zoology and Marine Science at Otago University, (Head of the Marine Science Department from 2000-2006). I have been an Otago Fish and Game councillor since 2018. I have a good understanding of our freshwater and marine ecosystems and as a scientist I will be able to contribute to thoughtful analysis and decision making on future environmental planning.
My priorities
- Ensure the new Land and Water Regional Plan is completed and implemented.
- Advocate that the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management is implemented without further delay.
- Provide Otago Regional Council staff with support in completing the above two priorities.
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