NZ Local Elections 2025

Whangārei District Council

Bream Bay General Ward
The Whangārei 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 Bream Bay ward. This is a single transferable vote (STV) election, so you vote by ranking the candidates on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Whangārei District Council election.

Candidates

Policies

Explore the candidates in your area

Matthew Yovich

Matthew Yovich

ACT Local

Ken Couper

Ken Couper

Independent

David Baldwin

David Baldwin

Independent

Paul Grace

Paul Grace

Simon Schuster

Simon Schuster

Shilane Shirkey

Shilane Shirkey

Shilane Shirkey

Shilane Shirkey

Why I'm standing

I am running for election because I care deeply about the future of Bream Bay. I have seen the challenges our communities face – from infrastructure and housing to economic opportunity – and I believe we need strong, practical leadership that listens and acts. I want to ensure our district grows in a way that reflects the needs of our people, protects our environment and builds a resilient, connected community for generations to come.

About me

I bring strong leadership, practical experience and a deep commitment to our community. I have worked closely with local businesses, helping navigate challenges and build opportunities. I am approachable, solutions-focused and passionate about making council more responsive and transparent. Living and working locally, I understand the issues firsthand and will advocate for what matters most to our people.

My priorities
  1. Upgrade wastewater systems to protect health and support growth.
  2. Support youth employment to build skills and retain talent.
  3. Improve transport links between Bream Bay and Whangārei.
Before politics

Business Navigator

Residence

Waipu

Age

54

Connect via
Why I'm standing

I am running for election because I care deeply about the future of Bream Bay. I have seen the challenges our communities face – from infrastructure and housing to economic opportunity – and I believe we need strong, practical leadership that listens and acts. I want to ensure our district grows in a way that reflects the needs of our people, protects our environment and builds a resilient, connected community for generations to come.

About me

I bring strong leadership, practical experience and a deep commitment to our community. I have worked closely with local businesses, helping navigate challenges and build opportunities. I am approachable, solutions-focused and passionate about making council more responsive and transparent. Living and working locally, I understand the issues firsthand and will advocate for what matters most to our people.

My priorities
  1. Upgrade wastewater systems to protect health and support growth.
  2. Support youth employment to build skills and retain talent.
  3. Improve transport links between Bream Bay and Whangārei.
Before politics

Business Navigator

Residence

Waipu

Age

54

Connect via

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