Tasman District Council
The Tasman District Council provides local services and facilities, such as public transport, rubbish and recycling, libraries, parks, and recreation facilities. It also passes local regulations and makes decisions about infrastructure, such as water supply and sewerage, and about the region’s resources, including water, soil and the coastline. The council is made up of 14 councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the district). two councillors will be elected from the Golden Bay 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 Tasman District Council election.
Tasman District Council candidates
Explore the candidates in your area
Axel Downard-Wilke
Why I'm standing
Serving my community is important to me. I chair various groups and am an active member of others. I work respectfully with people, listen well, provide leadership, and am confident to speak up. I have the needs of the community at heart and will be a strong advocate for Golden Bay.
About me
As director of an engineering consultancy firm, I have strong governance experience. I've worked for and with local government since the 1990s and understand the role of a councillor well. I'm fiscally prudent, would never support Waimea Dam-type projects, and will bring the focus back to core services to keep rates under control.
My priorities
- Focus on resilient communications by fixing the 111 vulnerability and keeping phones working in an emergency.
- Focus on resilient travel by working with NZTA to fix Waitapu Splash.
- Keep water safe for drinking, swimming and irrigation by opposing mining at Sams Creek.
Get across the policies, candidates and parties
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.
Mayor
Compare the mayoral candidates in your area
Local council
Compare the candidates for your city or district council
Regional council
Compare the candidates for your regional council
Local board
Compare the candidates for your local or community board