NZ Local Elections 2025

Waikato District Council

Newcastle-Ngāruawāhia General Ward
The Waikato 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 13 councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the district). two councillors will be elected from the Newcastle-Ngāruawāhia 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 Waikato District Council election.

Candidates

Policies

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Eugene Patterson

Eugene Patterson

Dianne Firth

Dianne Firth

Independent

Ganga Sudhan

Ganga Sudhan

Grant Coombes

Grant Coombes

Independent

Ganga Sudhan

Ganga Sudhan

Why I'm standing

I am standing for election because I believe Ngāruawāhia is full of untapped potential. I have worked closely with community groups helping whānau, rangatahi and vulnerable residents gain confidence and opportunities after 10 years in Aotearoa and three years living locally. I want to ensure decisions are made with heart, not politics. I am committed to practical solutions that reflect the voices of our people and help our town grow stronger, together.

About me

I am deeply grounded in community service with years spent supporting local organisations to uplift youth, working families and vulnerable residents. I bring lived experience, empathy and the ability to listen across differences. I have worked in governance, education and advocacy and I understand how to connect people, ideas and action. People know me as someone who shows up, speaks clearly and follows through, always putting community first, not personal or political agendas.

My priorities
  1. Prioritise local youth development by creating more avenues for learning, mentoring and leadership.
  2. Improve access to council services and information so all voices can be heard.
  3. Support community-led projects that uplift vulnerable residents as locals know best what is needed.
Before politics

Workplace Training Consultant

Residence

Ngaruawahia

Age

49

Connect via
Why I'm standing

I am standing for election because I believe Ngāruawāhia is full of untapped potential. I have worked closely with community groups helping whānau, rangatahi and vulnerable residents gain confidence and opportunities after 10 years in Aotearoa and three years living locally. I want to ensure decisions are made with heart, not politics. I am committed to practical solutions that reflect the voices of our people and help our town grow stronger, together.

About me

I am deeply grounded in community service with years spent supporting local organisations to uplift youth, working families and vulnerable residents. I bring lived experience, empathy and the ability to listen across differences. I have worked in governance, education and advocacy and I understand how to connect people, ideas and action. People know me as someone who shows up, speaks clearly and follows through, always putting community first, not personal or political agendas.

My priorities
  1. Prioritise local youth development by creating more avenues for learning, mentoring and leadership.
  2. Improve access to council services and information so all voices can be heard.
  3. Support community-led projects that uplift vulnerable residents as locals know best what is needed.
Before politics

Workplace Training Consultant

Residence

Ngaruawahia

Age

49

Connect via

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