NZ Local Elections 2025

Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Western Bay of Plenty General Constituency
The Bay of Plenty 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 14 councillors. Councillors are elected to represent constituencies (areas in the region). two councillors will be elected from the Western Bay of Plenty 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 Bay of Plenty Regional Council election.

Candidates

Policies

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Cathi Barker

Cathi Barker

Neil Parker

Neil Parker

Ken Shirley

Ken Shirley

John Scrimgeour

John Scrimgeour

John Scrimgeour

Deputy Mayor WBOPDC

John Scrimgeour

Deputy Mayor WBOPDC

Why I'm standing

Over my lifetime, growth in the Bay of Plenty has been at three to four times the rest of New Zealand. This growth will continue and we need to plan for it. My lifetime experience as a farmer (land manager) and more recently as a district councillor have prepared me well to serve on regional council.

About me

I am personable and comfortable listening to people about their ideas and concerns. I am happy to share their concerns with staff and more than willing to advocate for them when necessary.

My priorities
  1. Minimise rate increases and ensure that funding is well targeted, delivering value for money.
  2. Review public transport with the aim of increasing patronage to get better value.
  3. Protect council investments and ensure the best return from the income for everyone.
Current role

Deputy Mayor WBOPDC

Residence

Pongakawa

Age

72

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Why I'm standing

Over my lifetime, growth in the Bay of Plenty has been at three to four times the rest of New Zealand. This growth will continue and we need to plan for it. My lifetime experience as a farmer (land manager) and more recently as a district councillor have prepared me well to serve on regional council.

About me

I am personable and comfortable listening to people about their ideas and concerns. I am happy to share their concerns with staff and more than willing to advocate for them when necessary.

My priorities
  1. Minimise rate increases and ensure that funding is well targeted, delivering value for money.
  2. Review public transport with the aim of increasing patronage to get better value.
  3. Protect council investments and ensure the best return from the income for everyone.
Current role

Deputy Mayor WBOPDC

Residence

Pongakawa

Age

72

Connect via

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