Waikato electorate
Waikato is currently represented by National's Tim van de Molen, who won safely with a margin of 15,452. In 2017, National won the largest share of Waikato's votes – 59% to Labour's 24%. Boundary changes this year removed some of the western and northern areas of the electorate, but added areas from Coromandel, Hamilton West and Taupō. Since its establishment in 1871, the seat has changed hands 21 times between members from more than six parties.
My local priorities
Kickstart the economy post-Covid-19 by supporting SMEs, creating jobs, and safely reopening the border. Lower taxes while reducing government debt. Revolutionise the mental health sector by centralising funding and promoting choice. Why I’m running
To counter the trend of MPs simply heading to Wellington to make new rules and regulations, resulting in an excessively interventionist State sector. Kiwis deserve critical thinkers in parliament – those who take an objective view of the law and evaluate all implications with a healthy dose of scepticism. If elected, I will be an effective MP who promotes freedom by reducing red tape, and always asking: do we need this new law? Is the current one flawed? How can we make Kiwis' lives easier?About me
I have enjoyed a diverse career: setting up businesses, working for tech start-ups, teaching, volunteering, sitting on boards, and working for an NGO in mental health and homelessness. My formal education includes a business degree, a PhD in marketing and strategic foresight, and I am in the middle of a law degree (put on hold if elected). I believe that community engagement is key to good law-making; you need to know how legislation affects people in the real world and treat them with respect.Party list rank
6First entered parliament
Not previously in parliament2017 electorate result
5th in Hamilton EastBefore politics
Team Lead in an NGO; business ownerPlace of residence
Flagstaff, HamiltonAge
32
My local priorities
Instil the value of life into law. Make the people the arbiters of law through legally binding referenda. Lower taxes throughout the entire economy and more efficient government spending. Why I’m running
I have seen the rule of successive governments fail to listen to the people of our nation. I want to change the way parliament functions to make it more accountable to the people. We have the best resources in the world, and, I want to see those used by the people of our fine country.About me
Before standing as a candidate, I underwent two heart surgeries. I have had to stop and really think about my convictions/beliefs and how to best apply them in the real world. I saw the degradation of the liberties afforded us by the 1688 Bill of Rights and decided that I had had enough. I am a Christian believer, and as such, I am strongly apposed to any law that devalues life or debases the individual person. I have been a barista, small business owner and a machinery operator previously.Party list rank
No response givenFirst entered parliament
Not previously in parliament2017 electorate result
Did not standBefore politics
No response givenPlace of residence
Okauia, Matamata-PiakoAge
29
My local priorities
Advocate for fairer rental agreements and alternative home ownership options supporting first home owners in Waikato. Ensure rural economic development is a priority including employment opportunities. Advocate for the well-being and safety of families with regard to crime prevention and support services. Why I’m running
I have always been an advocate for social justice and believe that every New Zealander should have access to a stable family home, employment opportunities and be able to pursue their passion in terms of their career. We live a country rich with natural resources and we are we recognised on a international level for our world class leadership. I want to contribute to the future leadership and aspirations for New Zealand by using my skills and attributes gained both here and overseas.About me
I have been contributing to my community in various leadership roles for many years. I am the founder of the charitable organisation Mana Aroha which provides global opportunities for New Zealand youth. I am the deputy chair of the Waitemata Local Board as well as Violent Free Communities Charitable Organisation. After spending ten years in the UK I came back to New Zealand with a view of giving back to my community and country which is why I am standing as a candidate.Party list rank
66First entered parliament
Not previously in parliament2017 electorate result
Did not standBefore politics
National funding managerPlace of residence
OnewheroAge
40
My local priorities
Extend Waikato Expressway to Piarere, then to Tauranga (including a tunnel). Strong transport links will drive economic growth. Expand the rollout of fibre and ultra-fast broadband. Improving connectivity is vital for our communities and businesses. Assess the feasibility of a Great Walk along the Kaimai Range. Our natural environment has so much to offer. Why I’m running
I am passionate about my community and my country. I believe strongly that New Zealand needs a government that enables businesses, communities, families and individuals to succeed. Currently, we are overburdened with rules, red tape and compliance and I will be working to reduce this. I'm also passionate about the agriculture sector and want to help develop solutions to enable greater productivity with a lower impact.About me
I was born and raised in the Waikato and am now raising my own family here. I have a varied background including farming, running my own businesses, an Army Officer, and a rural bank manager. I firmly believe in personal responsibility, individual freedom of choice, reward for hard work, strong families underpinning our society.Party list rank
42First entered parliament
20172017 electorate result
Won WaikatoBefore politics
Business, Army, Banker, FarmerPlace of residence
WaikatoAge
37
