NZ Local Elections 2025

Mayor of Palmerston North

The mayor is the leader of the council. Their job is to promote a vision for the city 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 Palmerston North City Council mayoral election.

Candidates

Policies

Explore the candidates in your area

Grant Smith

Grant Smith

Independent

Michael Morris

Michael Morris

Caleb Riddick

Caleb Riddick

Independent

Orphée Mickalad

Orphée Mickalad

Independent

Grant Smith

Independent

| Mayor of Palmerston North City

Grant Smith

Independent

| Mayor of Palmerston North City

Why I'm standing

I have a head for business and a heart for the community. In the past 10 years as mayor we have attracted investment and built infrastructure that has changed the face of the city. We have a diverse and resilient economy and steered correctly, we can navigate recent headwinds to make the most of opportunities. I will use all my business experience, independence and leadership to better Palmerston North.

About me

I'm born and bred here and have a real passion for Palmerston North. I've led businesses, organisations and run national and world events. I encourage individuals to play to their strengths, but part of a bigger team, each playing their role. My professional career was in advertising and marketing and was used to promoting and selling products and services for others. Now I'm doing that at council, promoting and selling the attributes of Palmerston North.

My priorities
  1. Continue to invest in key infrastructure giving ratepayers value for money and improving efficiency.
  2. Champion key projects including Te Utanganui Central New Zealand hub, freight ring road and rail transport investments.
  3. Ensure the waters entity is `established and new wastewater plant is affordable, sustainable and consented.
Current role

Mayor of Palmerston North City

Residence

Palmerston North City

Age

59

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Why I'm standing

I have a head for business and a heart for the community. In the past 10 years as mayor we have attracted investment and built infrastructure that has changed the face of the city. We have a diverse and resilient economy and steered correctly, we can navigate recent headwinds to make the most of opportunities. I will use all my business experience, independence and leadership to better Palmerston North.

About me

I'm born and bred here and have a real passion for Palmerston North. I've led businesses, organisations and run national and world events. I encourage individuals to play to their strengths, but part of a bigger team, each playing their role. My professional career was in advertising and marketing and was used to promoting and selling products and services for others. Now I'm doing that at council, promoting and selling the attributes of Palmerston North.

My priorities
  1. Continue to invest in key infrastructure giving ratepayers value for money and improving efficiency.
  2. Champion key projects including Te Utanganui Central New Zealand hub, freight ring road and rail transport investments.
  3. Ensure the waters entity is `established and new wastewater plant is affordable, sustainable and consented.
Current role

Mayor of Palmerston North City

Residence

Palmerston North City

Age

59

Connect via

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