Mayor of Hastings
Wendy Schollum
Proven Leadership - Fresh Thinking
| Councillor and Chair of Strategy & Recovery Committee
Wendy Schollum
Proven Leadership - Fresh Thinking
| Councillor and Chair of Strategy & Recovery Committee
Why I'm standing
My commitment is to be a mayor for all of Hastings. Our people are under financial pressure, housing is out of reach for too many, and recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle continues. Hastings needs experienced leadership that puts affordability first and unites the district. I will protect what works, cut what does not and lead a council that is transparent, listens and focuses on the basics so every generation can see a future here and thrive in Hastings.
About me
I bring deep local roots and proven experience to this role. Flaxmere-born, Havelock-North-raised, now raising my family in Hastings, I understand the district and its people. Over eight years on council, I have led committees on housing, infrastructure, recovery and economic development – delivering savings and improving delivery. With 20 years' experience in business and governance, and as a leader in senior, multicultural and business groups, I am known for being approachable, transparent and steady under pressure.
My priorities
- Deliver affordable homes by driving medium density in the right places so families can stay here.
- Protect fertile soils and water by cutting waste and planning growth smartly – the future depends on it.
- Grow secure jobs by backing Hastings industries and attracting new businesses to diversify the economy.
Current role
Councillor and Chair of Strategy & Recovery Committee
Residence
Frimley
Age
44
Connect via
Why I'm standing
My commitment is to be a mayor for all of Hastings. Our people are under financial pressure, housing is out of reach for too many, and recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle continues. Hastings needs experienced leadership that puts affordability first and unites the district. I will protect what works, cut what does not and lead a council that is transparent, listens and focuses on the basics so every generation can see a future here and thrive in Hastings.
About me
I bring deep local roots and proven experience to this role. Flaxmere-born, Havelock-North-raised, now raising my family in Hastings, I understand the district and its people. Over eight years on council, I have led committees on housing, infrastructure, recovery and economic development – delivering savings and improving delivery. With 20 years' experience in business and governance, and as a leader in senior, multicultural and business groups, I am known for being approachable, transparent and steady under pressure.
My priorities
- Deliver affordable homes by driving medium density in the right places so families can stay here.
- Protect fertile soils and water by cutting waste and planning growth smartly – the future depends on it.
- Grow secure jobs by backing Hastings industries and attracting new businesses to diversify the economy.
Current role
Councillor and Chair of Strategy & Recovery Committee
Residence
Frimley
Age
44
Connect via
Mayor
Compare the mayoral candidates in your area
Local council
Compare the candidates for your city or district council
Regional council
Compare the candidates for your regional council
Local board
Compare the candidates for your local or community board