Mayor of New Plymouth

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 single transferable vote (STV) election, so you vote by ranking the candidates on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the New Plymouth District Council mayoral election.

Mayor of New Plymouth candidates

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Sarah Lucas

Chair of Community Board Exec LGNZ, and Comm Board Member

Why I'm standing

Local government is about people and place. My vision is a 'place to belong, be heard and thrive.' I want to bring heart, integrity and action to the New Plymouth Council chamber because that is what our community needs – not political power games or personal agendas. Collaboration, communication and co-operation are key to making sure the voices of those who live, work and play in our district – your voices – are heard.

About me

As a mother to three teenage boys, a small business owner and community advocate I understand the pressures families are under every day to pay the bills, put food on the table and live good, honest lives. I know what effective, grassroots leadership looks like. Voted onto the community board in 2022, I worked to ensure all the voices of those who live in Te Kōhanga Moa Ward are heard, not just a favoured few.

My priorities

  1. Focus on smart spending, realistic rate rises, infrastructure and people centred decision making.
  2. Promote equity and representation through Māori wards, opening up council and giving voice to the voiceless.
  3. Face the future by focusing on climate, environment and people.

Get across the policies, candidates and parties

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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