NZ Local Elections 2025

Mayor of Western Bay of Plenty

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 Western Bay of Plenty District Council mayoral election.

Candidates

Policies

Explore the candidates in your area

Don Thwaites

Don Thwaites

Suaree Borell

Suaree Borell

Toitū te whenua - Toitū te Tiriti

Grant Dally

Grant Dally

Basics Done Better

John Holyoake

John Holyoake

Independent

Danielle Borell-Faa'soo

Danielle Borell-Faa'soo

James Denyer

James Denyer

Margaret Murray-Benge

Margaret Murray-Benge

Independent

Rodney Joyce

Rodney Joyce

Independent

James Denyer

Mayor of the Western Bay of Plenty

James Denyer

Mayor of the Western Bay of Plenty

Why I'm standing

I have really enjoyed my current role as mayor and wish to continue to serve our communities. Alongside my team of elected members I have achieved a lot, but there is still lots more I want to get done. Now that I have that greater experience in the role and built connections and relationships with central government, other councils, community organisations and iwi/hapū, I want to translate that experience into good outcomes for our district.

About me

I am the current mayor. I am a qualified hearings commissioner. I have been a professional in corporate finance for ten years. I have held leadership positions in a wide variety of community organisations in the environmental, social and charitable sectors. I am deputy chair for BOP Civil Defence Emergency Management. I bring a strong work ethic and a positive, collaborative approach.

My priorities
  1. Advocate for and build fit-for-purpose roading infrastructure to support economic growth.
  2. Enable housing where appropriate to provide for our community's needs.
  3. Maintain sound financial management and keep rates affordability front of mind.
Current role

Mayor of the Western Bay of Plenty

Residence

Katikati

Age

49

Connect via
Why I'm standing

I have really enjoyed my current role as mayor and wish to continue to serve our communities. Alongside my team of elected members I have achieved a lot, but there is still lots more I want to get done. Now that I have that greater experience in the role and built connections and relationships with central government, other councils, community organisations and iwi/hapū, I want to translate that experience into good outcomes for our district.

About me

I am the current mayor. I am a qualified hearings commissioner. I have been a professional in corporate finance for ten years. I have held leadership positions in a wide variety of community organisations in the environmental, social and charitable sectors. I am deputy chair for BOP Civil Defence Emergency Management. I bring a strong work ethic and a positive, collaborative approach.

My priorities
  1. Advocate for and build fit-for-purpose roading infrastructure to support economic growth.
  2. Enable housing where appropriate to provide for our community's needs.
  3. Maintain sound financial management and keep rates affordability front of mind.
Current role

Mayor of the Western Bay of Plenty

Residence

Katikati

Age

49

Connect via

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