NZ Local Elections 2025

Mayor of Hastings

The mayor is the leader of the council. Their job is to promote a vision for the district and lead the development of the council’s plans, policies and budget. The mayor appoints the deputy mayor, establishes committees for particular topics, and appoints chairs for those committees. 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 mayoral election.

Candidates

Policies

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Darrin Wilson

Darrin Wilson

Steve Gibson

Steve Gibson

Keeping rate rises to inflation (CPI)

Marcus Buddo

Marcus Buddo

Wendy Schollum

Wendy Schollum

Proven Leadership - Fresh Thinking

Damon Harvey

Damon Harvey

Accountable to You

Darrin Wilson

Darrin Wilson

Why I'm standing

I have lived in Hawke’s Bay my entire life and have travelled the world more than 30 times. Along the way, I raced motorcycles and became a champion in three different countries. I am fortunate to have a wonderful life surrounded by the best friends anyone could ask for, and now I want to give back to my community by serving on council.

About me

I’m standing because I believe the current council has failed in its responsibility to manage money wisely. Spending beyond income by such large amounts puts unnecessary debt on our community. I want to bring accountability, common sense, and financial responsibility back into local government.

My priorities
  1. Stop wasteful spending - council must focus on essentials and end projects that are not priorities.
  2. Restore responsible money management - it is unacceptable to spend $100 million more a year than what is earned
  3. Protect ratepayers - debt should not be passed onto the community because of inadequate decision-making.
Why I'm standing

I have lived in Hawke’s Bay my entire life and have travelled the world more than 30 times. Along the way, I raced motorcycles and became a champion in three different countries. I am fortunate to have a wonderful life surrounded by the best friends anyone could ask for, and now I want to give back to my community by serving on council.

About me

I’m standing because I believe the current council has failed in its responsibility to manage money wisely. Spending beyond income by such large amounts puts unnecessary debt on our community. I want to bring accountability, common sense, and financial responsibility back into local government.

My priorities
  1. Stop wasteful spending - council must focus on essentials and end projects that are not priorities.
  2. Restore responsible money management - it is unacceptable to spend $100 million more a year than what is earned
  3. Protect ratepayers - debt should not be passed onto the community because of inadequate decision-making.

Mayor

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Local council

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