NZ Local Elections 2025

Southland District Council

Oreti Ward
The Southland 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 12 councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the district). three councillors will be elected from the Ōreti ward. 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 election.

Candidates

Policies

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Katie Allan

Katie Allan

Independent - long live common sense

Phil Dobson

Phil Dobson

Christine Menzies

Christine Menzies

Brian Somerville

Brian Somerville

Christine Menzies

Deputy Mayor

Christine Menzies

Deputy Mayor

Why I'm standing

I am standing for my third term as a councillor and believe that I am able to use my knowledge and skills to benefit our community in what are increasingly complex times.

About me

I have been living in the Oreti community since 1978. During that time I have worked as a public servant in the health, welfare and education sectors. In addition, I have governance experience with local boards of trustees and I currently chair the Central Southland Hospital Charitable Trust. My qualifications in law, business and social work have provided me with good analytical skills and I can articulate my views in an informed way.

My priorities
  1. Focus on roading as our largest area of expense. Increase the FAR rate to enable an opportunity to lower rates.
  2. Address Three Waters as it will impact on future rates unless the new water standards allow a changed approach.
  3. Support local government reorganisation as it has the potential to increase efficiency and lower rates in the future.
Current role

Deputy Mayor

Residence

Winton

Age

69

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Why I'm standing

I am standing for my third term as a councillor and believe that I am able to use my knowledge and skills to benefit our community in what are increasingly complex times.

About me

I have been living in the Oreti community since 1978. During that time I have worked as a public servant in the health, welfare and education sectors. In addition, I have governance experience with local boards of trustees and I currently chair the Central Southland Hospital Charitable Trust. My qualifications in law, business and social work have provided me with good analytical skills and I can articulate my views in an informed way.

My priorities
  1. Focus on roading as our largest area of expense. Increase the FAR rate to enable an opportunity to lower rates.
  2. Address Three Waters as it will impact on future rates unless the new water standards allow a changed approach.
  3. Support local government reorganisation as it has the potential to increase efficiency and lower rates in the future.
Current role

Deputy Mayor

Residence

Winton

Age

69

Connect via

Mayor

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