The Ruapehu District 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 nine councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the district). six councillors will be elected from the Ruapehu 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 Ruapehu District Council election.
Explore the candidates in your area

Robyn Gram

Rhonda Kingston

John Chapman
IT TAKES A TEAM

Gary Griffin-Chappel

Elaine Reed
Affiliation Pending Approval

Rodger Baker
Vibrant Ruapehu

Peter Zimmer

Elise Te Hau Whakaheke Adams

Viv Hoeta

Rabbit Nottage

Nicoleen Wessels
Independent

Brenda Ralph

Sophie Stockbridge
Clear budgets. Honest leadership.

Luke Pepper
I am running for council because I love our vibrant Ruapehu communities and want to ensure our small towns and rural areas have a strong voice – especially as we face increasing pressures on infrastructure, water and community services. I am running to ensure that voices from our rural communities, especially our small towns, are genuinely heard around the council table. I want to build trust, openness and stronger connections across Ruapehu.
I have been part of this community for over 20 years, running a small business while raising my family here. I bring real-life knowledge of our everyday challenges, a strong capacity for listening and a commitment to transparency. I work hard to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and to build trust through open communication. I am dedicated, flexible and ready to champion our communities with integrity and compassion.
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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