NZ Local Elections 2025

Mayor of Southland

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 first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Southland District Council mayoral election.

Candidates

Policies

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Rob Scott

Rob Scott

Gary Tong

Gary Tong

Wendy Joy Baker

Wendy Joy Baker

Standing Strong & Working With Wisdom.

Rob Scott

Mayor

Rob Scott

Mayor

Why I'm standing

I have enjoyed working with and fighting for all of our communities across every section of Southland. Our people down here are something else, our place down here is something special, the potential down here is endless, and my passion grows stronger every day. My sleeves are well and truly rolled up, my boots are well worn and I would love the opportunity to carry on serving this district for another term as your Mayor.

About me

With my business acumen, 15 years council experience and strong relationships across NZ, I have made a positive impact as your mayor. With an emphasis on keeping it local, keeping costs down and ensuring that council is efficient and reflective of the communities it serves, we are heading in the right direction towards having a council that you are proud of. I have run successful businesses and now also a successful council.

My priorities
  1. Lead an effective team of 69 elected members to ensure council is 100% connected.
  2. Achieve funding equity for roads from government to take the heavy burden off ratepayers.
  3. Drive the reorganisation of Southland councils to an effective outcome led by communities.
Current role

Mayor

Residence

Lumsden

Age

45

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Why I'm standing

I have enjoyed working with and fighting for all of our communities across every section of Southland. Our people down here are something else, our place down here is something special, the potential down here is endless, and my passion grows stronger every day. My sleeves are well and truly rolled up, my boots are well worn and I would love the opportunity to carry on serving this district for another term as your Mayor.

About me

With my business acumen, 15 years council experience and strong relationships across NZ, I have made a positive impact as your mayor. With an emphasis on keeping it local, keeping costs down and ensuring that council is efficient and reflective of the communities it serves, we are heading in the right direction towards having a council that you are proud of. I have run successful businesses and now also a successful council.

My priorities
  1. Lead an effective team of 69 elected members to ensure council is 100% connected.
  2. Achieve funding equity for roads from government to take the heavy burden off ratepayers.
  3. Drive the reorganisation of Southland councils to an effective outcome led by communities.
Current role

Mayor

Residence

Lumsden

Age

45

Connect via

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