The Palmerston North City Council provides local services and facilities, such as public transport, rubbish and recycling, libraries, parks, and recreation facilities. It also makes decisions about building and planning, local regulations, and infrastructure, such as water supply and sewerage. The council is made up of 15 councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the city). 13 councillors will be elected from the Te Hirawanui ward. 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 election.
Explore the candidates in your area

Eldhose Poovathumveettil Mathew
Independent

William George Wood

Atif Rahim

Nelson Harper
Independent

Leonie Hapeta

Adrian Phillips

Karen Naylor
Independent

Glen Williams
ACT Local

Lew Findlay
Independent

Jackie Wheeler
Independent

Caleb Riddick
Independent

Dave Poppelwell
Independent

Michael Paul Strachan

Orphée Mickalad
Independent

Mark Arnott

Verne Wilson
Independent

Richard Woolgar
Independent

Jeremy Craig Hoskins

Jack Koh

Wajeha Akbaryan
Independent

Lorna Johnson
Labour

Kayne John Dunlop

Zulfiqar Butt
Labour

Melanie Butler
Independent

Dave Salisbury
Independent

Kaydee Jean Zabelin
Green Party

Vaughan Dennison
Independent

Cameron Jenkins
Independent

Rachel Bowen

Billy Meehan
Independent

Tobias Wilson Nash

Hayden Fitzgerald
Independent

Quintin McGregor

Zakk Rokkanno
Independent

Brent Barrett
Green Party

Eric Judd
Independent

Mark Gunning
Independent
I am running for council because I believe every community deserves compassionate, respectful leadership that listens to everyone – especially those who feel they don't have a voice. I am passionate about lowering the stigma around mental health, promoting emotional intelligence and fostering kindness in our community. I feel that together, we can create a more inclusive, supportive place where everyone feels valued and heard.
I believe in listening first and leading with empathy, fairness and common sense. I am committed to being a steady, practical voice for all parts of our community – especially those often unheard. Through years of involvement in local schools and community groups, I have built strong connections and a deep understanding of local needs. I am not here to play politics – I am here to serve, stay accountable and work with others to build a stronger, more inclusive community.
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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