The final results of the 2025 Local Elections have been confirmed, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Tararua District Council.

Before looking ahead, we want to thank outgoing Mayor Tracey Collis, Councillors Naioma Chase, Kerry Sutherland, Alison Franklin and Mike Long, as well as Community Board members Pat Walshe, Terry Carew and Everlyne Chase, for their service and dedication to our communities.

Under their leadership, Tararua made significant progress across key areas, including securing more than $54 million in external funding for infrastructure projects, completing the Huarahi Tūhono – Weber to Wimbledon (Route 52) road upgrade, advancing water treatment improvements across the district, and strengthening our emergency management capability. These achievements have made our communities safer, more resilient and better connected; a legacy the new Council will continue to build upon.

With the transition now complete, Scott Gilmore has been confirmed as Mayor of Tararua District and shared his excitement for the term ahead. He expressed confidence in the diverse make-up of the new Council for the 2025–2028 triennium, which includes representatives from the North Ward, South Ward and the Tamaki nui-a-Rua Māori Ward.

“It is a huge honour to have been elected as Mayor of the Tararua District. Your trust means a great deal, and I will not take it for granted. You have elected a strong team of councillors and community board members who are eager to get to work for you,” Mayor Scott said.

For the North Ward, Councillors Erana Peeti-Webber, Sharon Wards and Steve Wallace are returning to the table alongside newcomer Alison Amboy.

For the South Ward, Councillor Peter Johns will be returning for his fifth term on Council, and will be joined by three first-term councillors — Elisabeth Kennedy, Peter Naylor and Chris Corlett.

Keshaan Te Waaka has secured the Tamaki nui-a-Rua Māori Ward seat, bringing the voices of the younger generation to the table, as well as representing the interests of voters in the Māori Ward.

Dannevirke Community Board will see the return of Ernie Christison, Terry Hynes and Ron Wallace, with Nicola Phillips joining as a new member.

Eketāhuna Community Board has Larissa Barclay and Steen McGhie returning for another term, joined by new members Mel Corlett and David Smith.

The new Council will be officially sworn in at the First Triennial Council Meeting later this month, marking the start of the 2025–2028 triennium. With a balance of fresh perspectives and experienced leadership, the Council looks forward to working together for the benefit of everyone in the Tararua District.