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

Explore the candidates in your area

Brian Somerville

Brian Somerville

Phil Dobson

Phil Dobson

Christine Menzies

Christine Menzies

Katie Allan

Katie Allan

Independent - long live common sense

Phil Dobson

Community Board Deputy Chair

Phil Dobson

Community Board Deputy Chair

Why I'm standing

Ensuring any infrastructure spending is more than fit for purpose so we are future proofing assets and protecting future generations.

About me

I bring a practical approach grounded in communication and accountability. My background in management, youth development and education has taught me the value of pragmatism, collaboration, and future faced thinking. I genuinely care about the future of our towns, farms, and people — and I'll advocate for them and our region.

My priorities
  1. Consult on infrastructure with range and reach, focussing on shared aspirations for the community.
  2. Meet the challenge of Three Waters head on and manage the impact it will have on future rates and generations.
  3. Urge dialogue between local and central government to find solutions to shared goals collaboratively.
Current role

Community Board Deputy Chair

Residence

Central Souhland

Age

49

Why I'm standing

Ensuring any infrastructure spending is more than fit for purpose so we are future proofing assets and protecting future generations.

About me

I bring a practical approach grounded in communication and accountability. My background in management, youth development and education has taught me the value of pragmatism, collaboration, and future faced thinking. I genuinely care about the future of our towns, farms, and people — and I'll advocate for them and our region.

My priorities
  1. Consult on infrastructure with range and reach, focussing on shared aspirations for the community.
  2. Meet the challenge of Three Waters head on and manage the impact it will have on future rates and generations.
  3. Urge dialogue between local and central government to find solutions to shared goals collaboratively.
Current role

Community Board Deputy Chair

Residence

Central Souhland

Age

49

Mayor

Compare the mayoral candidates in your area

Explore

Local council

Compare the candidates for your city or district council

Explore

Regional council

Compare the candidates for your regional council

Explore

Local board

Compare the candidates for your local or community board

Explore