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Cr Robbie Byars
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Cr Robbie Byars
Councillor - Molyneux Constituency
| Portfolio: | Environmental Delivery |
| Email: | Robbie.Byars@orc.govt.nz |
| Tel: | 022 470 8729 |
Dairy farmer Robbie Byars is a new face in local government, bringing a different outlook and younger generation’s view. He stood after watching the events of last year’s failed land and water plan process and ultimately hopes "to refocus council on core responsibilities, oppose further rates increases, end climate change and race-based policies.”
That might seem like a rather large task, but Robbie says, “I will do my best to represent the wishes of the ratepayers who elected me”.
Steady and unflappable, Robbie’s a no-frills farmer. “Life is different for our generation; we’re facing different challenges. There’s too much red tape. It’s tough to buy property, and even tougher to do anything with the land you’ve got. We need to ease up on consents and let people get on with it - that’s my main focus.”
He recognises juggling both council and running a farm will take an effort. “Farming takes all the time and money you give it and keeps coming back asking for more” he says. “You’ve got to know where to draw the line. Being a new councillor is a process; there’s a lot to get my head around.”
Robbie's favourite place to get away to is right here in Otago – Lake Hawea, where he’s holidayed since childhood. “It can be a windy place, but it makes you appreciate the calm days.” No stranger to the elements, he now lives and farms on Kaka Point’s wild, windswept coast. His favourite way to escape is jet boating - up remote rivers like the Dart above Glenorchy. “I love getting out into the wilderness - no cell service, just fresh air and landscapes that are hard to reach.”
Winds of change are fine with Robbie. “As they say, change is the only constant in life” When asked if he would be able to handle it, he responded “I’m not a naturally patient person, it must be said. I’ve been elected to look at what needs doing and make changes to what is currently happening. I’m ready to get on with it. I value my time so if I’m going to sacrifice a good chunk of it, I’m going to do it for a decent reason.”
