The Hastings District Council provides local services and facilities, such as public transport, rubbish and recycling, libraries, parks, and recreation facilities. It also makes decisions about building and planning, local regulations, and infrastructure, such as water supply and sewerage. The council is made up of 15 councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the district). seven councillors will be elected from the Hastings-Havelock North ward. 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 Hastings District Council election.
Explore the candidates in your area

Bernard Hickey
Independent

Steve Gibson
Keeping rate rises to inflation (CPI)

Callum Ross
Independent

Michael Fowler
Independent

Rizwaana (Riz) Latiff
Independent

Simon J H Nixon
Independent

Sayeed Ahmed

Nick Ratcliffe

Lucie-Jane McElwee
Fair rate rises = inflation rate

Jacqueline Supra

Darrin Wilson

Kevin Watkins

Yvonne Lorkin
Your Eyes, Ears and Energy in Council

Gareth (Gus) Freeman
Keeping rate rises to inflation (CPI)

Debbie Ward
Listen. Learn. Advocate.

Rion Roben

John Bennett
I want a better deal for ratepayers than what they are getting and be a strong voice as an independent candidate with no party ties. My approach is to be a solutions-focused person, with an eye for detail, who is not afraid to question the norm. I will encourage a deep dive into council spending to ensure that ratepayer needs are achieved through prudent fiscal budgeting.
I have substantial knowledge and experience in board governance, law, and financial management from my professional background in both public and private organisations will be invaluable in this role. I pride myself on being able to influence and gain commitment and will bring direction, vision and support to the council table. I'm a 'solutions man' committed to getting results with a keen eye for detail, and believes in questioning every issue until satisfied of the result.
Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2025 local elections. Compare the candidates and policies to see where you stand.
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