Otago Regional Council
The Otago 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 12 councillors. Councillors are elected to represent constituencies (areas in the region). one councillor will be elected from the Moeraki constituency. 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 Otago Regional Council election.
Otago Regional Council candidates
Explore the candidates in your area
Sophia Leon De La Barra
Why I'm standing
Otago has been my home for 17 years. I've seen the challenges we face – from water quality and climate resilience to transport – and I believe we need to put people first in our decision making.
About me
I'm ready to represent you. I have hands-on and governance experience in local organisations like Waitaki Community Gardens and Te Whare Koa Marae. I'm focused on outcomes that balance environmental care with community and economic wellbeing. I'll work with farmers, businesses, iwi and environmental groups to get things done.
My priorities
- Build a bus service between Ōamaru and Dunedin and better public transport within Ōamaru.
- Build sustainable land use and rivers we can not only swim in, but drink from.
- Build transparent, community-driven decisions.
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.
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