To avoid disappointment, make sure you are on the current roll
These are the confirmed candidate profiles for the ORC 2025 triennial elections.
Voting for candidates in the 2025 Local Body Elections will end on election day, 11 October 2025 at noon.
Rank the candidates in order of preference, write number “1” next to the name of your favourite candidate, number “2” next to your second favourite candidate and so on until you have ranked your preferences. You do not need to rank all candidates, just those you prefer most.
Don't forget to make sure you're ready to vote too.
Electing 5 regional councillors from 10 Dunedin candidates.
Hilary CALVERT |
|
| Affiliation: | Vision Otago |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
In the past five years, the Otago Regional Council has doubled your rates by more than doubling its staff numbers. Yet there is no improvement in the water quality in our lakes, rivers and waterways, there are no fewer pests, and regional wastewater treatment plants continue to pollute. In addition, families with schoolchildren will now pay $600 per annum per child to travel on Dunedin buses.
We can and must do better. As a former regional councillor, I’m aware that the critical problem is a lack of good governance. We can achieve reduced rates, cleaner water, more effective pest programmes, and less environmental pollution through more effective elected leadership. It’s also time for council to listen to community concerns rather than dictate responses.
I support Vision Otago’s goals of reducing regional rates, improving our environment and ensuring a more democratic and accountable organisation. For more detail please visit www.visionotago.nz
James COCKLE |
|
| Affiliation: | The Radical Action Faction |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
The well-being of our people and the natural world go hand in hand, but our political and economic system has failed us. For decades politicians have favoured the rich over the poor, destructive industries over the environment.
I stand for public transport, water quality, action on climate change, and affordable healthy housing for all.
Ecological collapse is upon us with flooding, droughts, wildfires and heat waves across Aotearoa and the world. Thankfully, we can improve our quality of life, consume less, and restore our ecosystems at the same time. I welcome migrant communities, refugees and minorities to settle and thrive in Otago. I support a free Palestine and honouring of Te Tiriti. I’m with the Radical Action Faction. We will establish People’s and Citizen’s Assemblies to discuss the important issues that are affecting our communities and let the people decide what action should be taken.
Chanel GARDNER |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
Chanel Gardner brings serious capability to the table.
A trained lawyer and national voice in primary industries, she has built her career where land, sea, and policy intersect. From family law to fisheries, environmental advocacy to regional development, Chanel leads with clarity, purpose, and deep respect for the people doing the work on the ground to keep Otago moving forward.
She will push for better environmental results by cutting through complexity, staying focused on what matters, and building strong relationships to get things done for Otago.
The strategic direction is there; now is the time to have people around the table who can drive delivery, ask the right questions, and ensure decisions lead to real outcomes for Otago’s communities.
Phil GLASSEY |
|
| Affiliation: | Independent |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
Kia ora. I am standing for the Otago Regional Council because I believe there is a better way to manage our land, water and air, and provide modern public transport options. For too long we have been fighting against the environment with outdated engineering and land use practices. At the same time have allowed our waterways to become over-utilised and polluted. We should ensure that our land use enhances our environment, not degrade it.
I have a background in engineering geology and worked for GNS Science for 35 years in the field of landslide, earthquake and tsunami hazard and risk, geomorphic processes, and social science around energy use and critical minerals. I bring my knowledge to ensure that land use practices, economies and resources are resilient to the forces of nature, including climate change, and are not exploitative.
Alex KING |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
Kia ora koutou, ko Alex King taku ingoa. I’m standing for Otago Regional Council to lead on strong environmental protection.
Let’s focus on the wellbeing of people and our natural environment. I’ll advocate for local provision of basic food and energy, so we are resilient against future shocks and supply-chain disruption. I’ll advocate for protection of native species and habitat.
Many politicians prioritise economic growth, which has provided material benefits but is now failing us, with climate and biodiversity crises and social breakdown increasingly outweighing those benefits.
I work in IT, I’ve been involved in community groups in our city, been a trustee at two schools, a director of a credit union and of a property development company. I have been a long-term advocate for an excellent bus system in Ōtepoti/Dunedin. I live at Toiora Cohousing. I’m a team player.
Learn more at https://a4o.nz/
Vote 1 Alex King
Kia ora koutou, ko Alex King ahau.
E tū ana ahau hei kaitono mō te ORC, kia ara ake ai i te kaupapa tiaki taiao. Kia aro tātou ki te oranga tonutanga o ngā tāngata me te taiao hoki. Ka tū ahau hei kaitaunaki kia whakarato ai i ngā kai me te pūngao mai i te rohe nei ki ia tangata, kei tae mai te takerehāia, te tau nihoroa hoki. E kore te reke e rawea ki te moana.
Ki ētahi tōrangapū, ko te mea mātua ko te ohanga. Kua tohaina e te ohanga ngā hua o te ao rawa, engari inaianei ka paheke tērā mahi.
Kua tae mai ngā mōrearea o te āhuarangi, o te taiao, o te hapori hoki. He nui ake te kino i te pai.
Kua tohe ahau mō te ratonga pahi pai rawa atu.
Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
Tim MEPHAM |
|
| Affiliation: | Independent |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
(B.Com, CA) I am a current councillor seeking re-election. My priorities are to improve the state of our waterways, the environment and to ensure sound governance. This can be achieved by a well-managed, functioning regional council. This is my goal.
I have been the co-chair of both the Finance and Audit and Risk Committees, involved in and supported the establishment of the New Environmental Fund, policy improvements in Indigenous Biodiversity and Air Quality, I was a supporter of the Land and Water plan. I want to see ongoing improvements to our bus services and re-establishment of regional rail.
I am an accountant, former chair of Presbyterian Support Otago and former director of City Forests Ltd. I have been a Fish and Game member for many years, fishing in the lakes and rivers in Otago, where I have seen more water degradation than improvement. I believe in continuous improvement.
Ka mihi
Andrew NOONE |
|
| Affiliation: | Independent |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
I am seeking re-election to Council.
I believe in a strong commitment to the sustainable use of natural resources to support both our communities and individuals to strive for and achieve environmental, economic, social and cultural wellbeing.
During my 35 years of sheep and beef farming one of my proudest achievements was protecting, with a QE II covenant, 50 hectares of native bush and wetlands, ensuring these important habitats are maintained and enhanced in perpetuity.
I will advocate for efficient and effective use of ratepayer dollars ensuring value for money.
I offer a proven track record of pragmatic and prudent governance. I’m passionate about ensuring decision making is both grounded in real world experience and guided by long term vision for Otago’s future.
I want a more resilient region where people and nature thrive together.
I value your support and will continue serving you with integrity and purpose.
Gretchen ROBERTSON |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
I’m a seventh-generation Dunedin local with over 25 years’ experience in environmental science and community leadership, including extensive governance as an Otago Regional Councillor. I currently Chair the Council and key regional joint committees.
My background spans technical expertise as an environmental scientist, practical work as a rural-urban catchment facilitator, and leadership that brings people together. I bring depth across key areas—water, hazard resilience, catchments, public transport, and biodiversity.
Strong local voices and a healthy environment are the foundation of thriving, enduring communities. I’m experienced, energised, and optimistic—with a deep connection to this region and its people.
I understand change is needed and see navigating it as a privilege. I’m ready and motivated to help shape a future that reflects the values and aspirations of Otago communities—while protecting what makes this place so special.
Alan SOMERVILLE |
|
| Affiliation: | Green Party |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
I have been a Regional Councillor for the last three years. Otago needs responsible decisions based on long-term thinking, care for our people and care for our environment.
For most of the last 30 years I worked in Playcentres and early childhood centres. Spending all that time with young children made me think closely about the future they are going to live in, and how leaders today can take that future in different directions.
It is so important that we have clean air to breathe and clean water in our rivers and lakes. In the long run that is the only way our people, businesses, and farms can thrive. Good public transport is also part of the picture.
Our rural and urban communities are full of goodwill and knowledge. Our council can work with them to make Otago a better place to live right now and for future generations.
Elliot WEIR |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunedin Constituency area. | |
During my term on council, I have fought for: a transparent council that listens to all of its communities; a reliable public transport system that we can count on; robust environmental planning that protects biodiversity into the future above short-term private profits; and a region that is prepared for natural hazards and the impacts of climate change and that plays its role in mitigating the problem.
There's still plenty of work to do, with progress stalling on critical protections for our land, water, air, and coast and funding cut for necessary improvements to our bus network. It would be an honour to serve as your councillor for another term, to carry on the mahi I’ve started and ensure positive change for our region.
Electing 4 regional councillors from 7 Dunstan candidates.
Ben FARRELL |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. | |
Our environment underpins economic prosperity, and I’m committed to restoring our biodiversity and freshwater, improving transport, and tackling resource management and strategic planning issues at the council table. I am well qualified to do so. With strong family ties to Otago and decades of experience in policy, planning and development, I bring expertise, leadership and governance qualities. I hold post graduate degrees in management and environmental policy and planning from Lincoln University. I am a full member of the NZ Planning Institute, the current President of the NZ Resource Management Law Association, and an accredited RMA commissioner. I champion strong local governance, property rights, and sustainable growth. I’ll be a firm voice for the Regional Deal, helping Otago Central Lakes gain traction with Central Government. My work is about helping you and all of us shape a prosperous, resilient future for this region, for us and our children after us.
Neil GILLESPIE |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. | |
My community involvement and experience as a Cromwell Community Board Member/Chairman and CODC Councillor since 1998 (and Deputy Mayor since 2010) mean I have proven governance skills, common sense, and the logical approach to effectively represent the communities of the ORC's Dunstan Constituency.
This, combined with 47 years in the electricity industry and 32 years as a volunteer firefighter, means I have developed an extensive governance and leadership skill set that local government requires. My significant experience and understanding of the Resource Management Act and the structure of local government means I am well suited to roles undertaken by the ORC.
I seek your support to be a member of the ORC team that ensures the Dunstan Constituency and Otago remain places that provide future generations with an environment where our resources are sustainably managed by making balanced decisions that reflect the 'big picture' views of the entire community.
Matt HOLLYER |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. | |
Otago is blessed with stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and incredibly talented people. I’ve lived in Queenstown for 28 years, managing tourism businesses, leading conservation projects, and working alongside community leaders to get things done. When Covid hit, I pivoted from tourism to conservation, connecting and supporting a powerful grassroots network of environmental groups and the local businesses backing them. This led to engagement with the regional council and government processes. I believe that what’s good for people, business, and the environment don’t have to be in conflict. With integrity, coordination, and long-term thinking, we can build a thriving Otago—economically, environmentally, and socially.
I’m standing for Otago Regional Council because I think my unique mix of practical know-how and future-focused leadership, rooted in real community connection and experience, can help deliver on this outcome.
Visit www.matthollyer.nz to learn more and please put a number 1 beside my name. Thank you.
Gary KELLIHER |
|
| Affiliation: | Vision Otago |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. | |
NZ Councils have lost regard for their ratepayers and are determining their own agenda that we all are expected to pay for. In the past term I have consistently voted against rates increases, and anything that puts ideology ahead of reality. Unfortunately, very few others have been prepared to, and council staff are controlling the direction. We desperately need more councillors prepared to vote against economy killing ideological policy, so we can strike a balance between the environment that we all value and the economy.
My businesses are involved in agriculture, quarrying and water management. My two university daughters and family will always come first but I am passionate about the community, environment and economy of our region.
I am determined that ORC needs reined in to reduce rates, be more ratepayer focused, and be far more efficient and cost effective. I humbly seek your further support.
Garykelliher77@gmail.com
027 284 5890
www.visionotago.nz
Michael LAWS |
|
| Affiliation: | Vision Otago |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. | |
This election, we have the unique opportunity to create a regional council that will be genuinely responsive to the needs of our region, and particularly to our Central/Lakes’ environment and communities.
The ORC has failed to improve water and lakes quality, address pest infestations, or listen to community concerns and priorities. Instead it has imposed average 20% per annum rate increases over the past six years, more than doubled its staff numbers, and constructed a new $65 million HQ in Dunedin. I want to return our council to the community, and seek your assistance to do so.
Reduced rates, better water quality, an effective Lakes Plan, an active pest policy, partnering with landowners, and open, transparent and honest governance — these will be my personal priorities over the next three years. I’ve joined a team of people dedicated to the same ends, please visit www.visionotago.nz for more detailed policy and information.
Amie PONT |
|
| Affiliation: | Independent |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. | |
Advocate for Rural Development - Champion for Otago’s Future.
Amie Pont grew up in Mosgiel, and for many years now, has called the Māniatoto home. With a passion for rural development, Amie has always been dedicated to supporting community and making sure our voices are heard.
For over twenty years, Amie has supported many local initiatives, is currently serving as Chair of Māniatoto Arts & Cultural Incorporated and works part-time for Herenga ā Nuku – the Outdoor Access Commission. Governance and advisory roles within local environmental initiatives (such as the Tiaki Maniototo catchment project) have grown her focus on regional results.
Ensuring our values and priorities shape our future, Amie’s vision is clear: a prosperous, vibrant Otago where we care for the land, while providing opportunities for all, especially our mokopuna. Amie’s ready to bring her deep community connection to a regional role.
Nicky RHODES |
|
| Affiliation: | Vision Otago |
| My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. | |
My principal place of residence is in the Dunstan Constituency area. I’ve lived most of my life in Otago, eventually settling in Wanaka, with my husband Jason, who runs a tourism business, and I work in commercial real estate.
Living in Central/Lakes, we all live in Paradise. But it is under threat – as much from poor governance and excessive rate demands (46% over past three years), as from terrestrial and aquatic pests, and declining water and lake standards. Fix the former, and we will fix the latter – which is why I’m standing with the Vision Otago team.
We have clear goals, detailed and effective policies, and an intent to improve our local environment. I’m a firm believer in creating partnerships and relationships, in open democracy, and empowering local communities. Our environment is our economy, and our home, and nothing less than the best leadership is required. For further details – please visit www.visionotago.nz.
Electing 1 regional councillor from 2 Moeraki candidates.
Sophia LEON DE LA BARRA |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Moeraki Constituency area. | |
My name is Sophia Leon de la Barra and I am standing for regional council to deliver real, practical solutions for our community.
My priorities are: a bus service between Ōamaru and Dunedin; better public transport within Ōamaru; sustainable land use; and transparent, community-driven decisions. Otago has been my home for 17 years. I’ve seen the challenges we face – from water quality and climate resilience to transport – and I believe we need to put people first in our decision making.
I have hands-on and governance experience in local organisations like Waitaki Community Gardens and Te Whare Koa Marae.
I’m ready to represent you. I’m focused on outcomes that balance environmental care with community and economic wellbeing. I’ll work with farmers, businesses, iwi, and environmental groups to get things done.
Vote Sophia for a collaborative, practical voice on Otago Regional Council.
Kevin MALCOLM |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Moeraki Constituency area. | |
Current Moeraki Councillor.
I am Otago born and bred and have lived in the Moeraki Constituency since 1981.
The Otago Regional Council is responsible for managing Otago’s land, air and water resources but it is the action of our communities that will ultimately determine our environmental destiny.
So many are working hard to achieve quality environmental results, but we can all do better, learn from historical mistakes and ensure we deliver future generations an Otago that is environmentally strong and sustainable.
Let’s work together to make it happen.
I have the skills, experience and determination to ensure that we develop policies and operational procedures that will deliver a highly functioning Otago Regional Council and an environmentally resilient Otago, that we are all proud to call home.
I respectfully seek your vote for the Moeraki Constituency.
Electing 2 regional councillors from 4 Molyneux candidates.
Robbie BYARS |
|
| Affiliation: | ACT Local: Real Change. Lower Rates. |
| My principal place of residence is in the Molyneux Constituency area. | |
Time and again, ratepayers have been let down by Otago Regional Council with unjustified rates hikes, needless red tape on property use, and ideological distractions chasing headlines over processing consents and upholding property rights. As a practical, straight-talking South Otago farmer, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it is to get things done. Yet I know the value of hard work, and believe every dollar of your rates must be spent wisely.
By voting for me as an ACT Local candidate, you know what you are going to get. I will tackle wasteful spending, curb these unsustainable rates hikes, restore accountability to the decision-making process, and refocus the Council on its core duties – managing our rivers, floods, freshwater, and biosecurity and making it easier for people to use their own land.
If you want to see common sense back on the council table, please give me your first preference vote.
Carmen Felicity HOPE (nee Knowler) |
|
| Affiliation: | Vision Otago |
| My principal place of residence is in the Molyneux Constituency area. | |
Local government in New Zealand has increasingly distanced itself from our local communities, and imposed significant financial demands. The ORC is no exception: an average 20% per annum rate rise over the past six years, for no real improvement in services. As a former regional councillor, I want to restore the balance by reducing rates, giving communities a stronger voice at the council table, ensuring effective environmental protection, and expanding bus services. I also want to improve the relationship between the ORC and those on the land, the latter are our frontline in improving water quality in our region.
I will be a tireless advocate for science-based environmental solutions not ideological imperatives. As an agricultural business owner, a mother to two school-aged children, and a former Winston Churchill Fellowship winner, I have the necessary experience and insight to make a positive difference on your behalf. For more detailed policies: www.visionotago.nz
Lloyd MCCALL |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Molyneux Constituency area. | |
As a farmer and Deputy Chair of Otago Regional Council, I bring grassroots knowledge and strategic leadership to the role of delivering practical outcomes for our rivers, land and communities. A healthy sustainable environment is the legacy we owe our grandchildren’s grandchildren. This commitment guides my work. Lasting progress towards shared goals must centre on strategy, strong local voices and careful budget management. Experience and collaborative thinking are required to maximise economic growth while protecting the environment.
From founding the Pomahaka Water Care Group to advancing catchment-based governance nationally, I promote community-led action grounded in shared responsibility for enduring environmental and economic sustainability.
My background in rural finance, mentoring, governance and farming, helps me tackle complex regional issues – such as water quality, pests, wilding pines, climate resilience, transport and urban growth.
I respectfully seek your support for re-election. Let’s protect what makes Otago special. Together.
Kate WILSON |
|
| Affiliation: | |
| My principal place of residence is in the Molyneux Constituency area. | |
I am standing again to support the Council to work together with communities to maintain and improve our environment. I believe in collaboration and science-based action to ensure our rates are spent on what makes Otago better.
We have a wonderfully diverse region that we can only manage by being on the ground with you. I am committed to being approachable and understanding. I will be your voice around the Council table, whether we are making decisions about rivers, flora or fauna or buses and transport.
Born and bred in Otago from city to country. I'm a graduate in geography and law and have been a farmer for over 30 years. I've served two terms on the Otago Regional Council, and have been part of many community groups. I am experienced, understand the changes we need for better local governance. I welcome your support for positive proven pragmatic representation.
The key thing in STV voting is:
You do not need to rank all candidates, just those you prefer most.
Remember:
Take part in the decisions that shape Otago. Get involved in local elections.
Make sure your vote counts in the local body elections. You do not need to rank all candidates, just those you prefer most.
Choose a candidate who represents you.
Want to vote on the future of the Otago region? You need to be enrolled.
