Your Candidates

Phone: 027 542 4707
Email: michaeltdford@gmail.com

Manawatu District is in good shape. Basic infrastructure and low rates increases must continue to be prioritised.

I offer continuity and experience wanting to cement in place recent initiatives. This is important with a new very different Council.

I served as Deputy Mayor for the last 9 years, was Chair of the highly performing revitalizing Feilding Promotion for over 20 years, was a Manfeild Park Trustee for 11 years, and served on 3 school BOT’s including FAHS and was Chair of Colyton School. I live at Colyton and have a district wide focus.

I have 47 years’ property valuation and real estate experience, owning my own real estate agency. This property and local knowledge skill set is very useful for Council.

We are proudly a strong farming and agribusiness District. I want MDC to be business and customer friendly with managed growth, and balanced investment in community facilities and services.

Phone: 027 228 6239
Email: hopdew@inspire.net.nz

I farm sheep and beef at Rangiwahia in partnership with my family. I have extensive experience in Governance roles in both urban and rural sectors through local government and community committees, trustee roles, and Federated Farmers. Currently, I chair the Manawatu River Catchments Collective focusing on good environmental outcomes for all.

As a born and bred Manawatu District resident and ratepayer, I have a great understanding of the matters that are important to our rural communities. I am committed to a rating system that is fair to all, support the current effort on planned economic growth for our district, and the existing intergenerational focus on sustainable infrastructure that is funded and delivered in a cost effective and efficient manner.

Being a sensible and decisive local voice for rural ratepayers is important to me, and I am committed to serving the wider Manawatu District and making a positive impact for all.

(Independent)

Phone: 027 252 6066
Email: rob4council@outlook.com

Rate rises and growing debt are becoming unaffordable for many. I support keeping rates affordable and repaying debt over the medium term. Council must get back to basics—maintaining and renewing infrastructure in both urban and rural areas. Feilding needs a 10-year plan to improve intersections, roads, and the State Highway to cope with traffic growth. Rural bridges and culverts also need work. Resilience is vital. We face extreme weather, ageing infrastructure, and rising community safety concerns. Council should back community groups, develop a safety and resilience plan, and explore initiatives like a virtual rural safety hub.

I support strengthening Manawatū Rural Support, Neighbourhood Support, and Community Patrol. I live on a farm near Feilding, lecture at UCOL, and have extensive Police leadership and military experience. I’m an executive member of the Manawatū District Residents & Ratepayers Association, community-focused and committed to delivering effective council services within budget.

Phone: 021 783 660
Email: colin.mcfadzean@xtra.co.nz

I am an experienced businessman, with a governance and entrepreneurial background, seeking re-election. Having downsized from a sheep and beef farm, I live on a 20ha farm in Halcombe.

As chairman, I have had an involvement for 10 years with the Stanway-Halcombe Water Scheme which has given me the understanding on how to get things done. Regardless of my personal views, have voted for what the wider community has wanted and have supported core infrastructure and investment, balancing the need to keep rates as low as possible, whilst endeavoring that we have a great place to live and grow.

Am a strong believer that we all should have equal opportunity and that it is our role to provide leadership and direction for all young people. I believe in up front communication and having a discussion directly, realising that the role of a councillor is defined by law as Governance.

(Independent)

Phone: 027 403 6683
Email: james@blacklab.nz

Accessible services, responsible spending, strong local hubs, and a great place to raise healthy kids—these are my priorities for Manawatū.

I’m running for the rural ward to ensure every part of our district is heard and supported, especially our smaller communities. Raised and living in rural Manawatū, I understand the pride and challenges of rural life. Everyone should benefit from the services we all fund, with rates spent wisely and transparently.

We’re fortunate to have excellent schools, and I’ll work to ensure children can reach them safely and easily—because opportunity should never be out of reach.

If elected, I’ll champion smart investment in safe infrastructure and well-resourced communities. Let’s build a future where Manawatū continues to thrive, families are supported, and every child has a clear path forward.

Phone: 06 324 8193

I’m Andrew Quarrie, and along with my wife Marilyn, we farm sheep and cattle near Rongotea. I am a current member of the Rongotea RSA and Lions club. In my 4th term as a district councilor, I have always tried to put the requirements of the rural community to the fore, and have never shied from voicing my opinion.

I am very conservative with the responsibility of spending ratepayers money. I believe in individual responsibility, and do not support any council action/policy which is based solely on race. After this election it will be a very new and inexperienced council. Corporate knowledge and consistency will be required as council navigates forward to meet the issues, challenges that arise. Thank you if you wish me to continue as I have in the past.

(An Experienced Rural Voice)

Phone: 027 429 4560
Email: shortz@inspire.net.nz

Hello everyone. I am passionate about my role as a councillor and wish to continue to serve the Manawatū community and am seeking re-election.

Married to Wayne, we live rurally near Halcombe and own a busy trade store in Feilding. We have three adult children.

Being a councillor is a big commitment and it has been a privilege being your elected representative for several terms now. I have demonstrated that I have the time, capability, integrity and energy for the position. I always put council first.

I am actively involved in all areas of council, holding numerous positions including RMA Commissioner, Hearings Committee chair, District Licensing Committee, Audit & Risk, and a productive member of multiple working groups and assessment panels.

Outside of council I give much of my time to the health & wellbeing sector in a governance capacity where I bring a strong rural voice.

Phone: 0204 077 2745
Email: kirk@votekirktrownson.nz

I’m a fifth-generation New Zealander, born in Feilding and raised in Kimbolton, with a commitment to fair, informed, and balanced decision-making for all.

As a small business owner living in rural Manawatū, I have strong ties and a genuine commitment to the district. I’ve built businesses from the ground up and understand the realities of raising a family, managing a home, and running a business.

All people deserve practical, down-to-earth representation. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I listen, learn, and will work hard for you. I’m committed to attending local events, supporting grassroots initiatives, and strengthening the rural heart of Manawatū. I bring honesty, experience, and a strong desire to serve.

Phone: 022 162 4933
Email: dancoxnz@outlook.com

My goal is to be transparent and approachable in all interactions with everyone I meet and do the best I can.

With nearly my entire life spent living and working in Feilding, my aim in running is to help build a prosperous, connected, and flourishing future for everyone in our town and the wider district.

I’m committed to the maintenance and improvement of our local amenities and ensuring that the resources and people of our community are treasured and treated to the respect and considerations they deserve.

I believe in an open, collaborative approach, listening and responding to all the views of our ward and district. I want to understand what is important to you and hope to offer a newfound voice to council driven by your concerns and needs. Let’s work together and make our community stronger.

I’d be honoured to earn your trust and support for this election.

Phone: 027 921 4564
Email: colin.dyer@xtra.co.nz

Fifty years in the Manawatu and ten as a proud Feilding resident. A successful early career as a Woolworths supermarket manager around NZ leading to 13 years of Department Store management including development of the Plaza. CEO of PN. Showgrounds- Arena 1987 –2002 during its halcyon years bringing major events to our region and promoting local sports and recreation. Subsequently operated a motor inn and restaurant before joining Summerset Retirement Villages – runner up NZ Village Manager of the Year 2011.

Former member of Jaycees, Rotary and Lions. Previous board member Tourism Manawatu, Manawatu Retailers Assn, VP. Moteliers Assn HB, current President Esplanade Scenic Railway Society, past president Manawatu Philatelic Society. Longtime volunteer for the Cancer Society and Relay for Life, Citizens Advice Bureau and committee member Makino Probus.

A wealth of business and financial management experience coupled with meaningful commitment to community service . Thrives on challenges and gets things done.

Phone: 021 430 399
Email: gghadfield@xtra.co.nz

It has been an immense privilege to serve as Councillor for the Feilding Ward over the last six years.

Feilding is a great community to live, do business and have fun in. it’s important that growth in our community is planned and managed in a sustainable and affordable way, while maintaining not only essential infrastructure but also local control. I am a strong supporter of localism.

I’m a forward thinking and pragmatic former CEO with an extensive background in the farming, publishing, events and education sectors.

My diverse and experienced background allows me to connect and communicate effectively with people from all walks of life. I work well in a team environment - and I’m not afraid to speak out or ask the hard questions.

With many colleagues retiring as Councillors in the Feilding ward, I offer continuity and experience and seek your continued support by way of your vote.

Phone: 027 293 9092
Email: topcatsalley@yahoo.com

As an independent candidate for local council, I, Alistair Graeme Hicks, would like to offer a simple, but focused, approach to key issues that I believe are important; with an emphasis on honest, hard-working and humble representation focusing on four main areas. The first being financial viability. Every project must be weighed and balanced according to practicality and funding.

Secondly, it’s important to have an appropriate and affordable infrastructure development and maintence plan. The third and fourth are viable community projects and sound business growth. These are two areas, I believe, the public are most aesthetically affected by on a day to day basis.

I believe that my life experience and many years of interaction with everyday people in retail gives me a reasonably well rounded comprehension of what locals are wanting, therefore, I am willing to represent them the best way I can.

Email: samhill4mdc@gmail.com

Feilding needs brand new energy on Council—someone who listens to the community and is prepared to roll up their sleeves for the hard work ahead, making decisions that get the best for our beautiful town and district.

Council must make the most of what makes Feilding great: being a family-friendly, easy-going, and welcoming community as we continue to grow. My top priorities are ensuring value for money, keeping housing affordable, protecting our natural and built heritage, maintaining well-run community facilities, building community resilience, and supporting sustainable development across Feilding and the wider district.

As a new candidate with a proven career track record, I bring a healthy dose of common sense, family ties to Feilding, and community connections through work, sport, and recreation. I also bring professional expertise in science, including knowledge of community health and wildlife conservation gained while studying at Massey University.

I’m asking for your vote.

Phone: 021 051 4353
Email: raewynforcouncil@outlook.com

Born and bred in Feilding, I’m proud to whakapapa to the place I call home. With over 11 years’ experience as Project Manager for Feilding Promotion, I worked alongside dedicated volunteers to help make Feilding the best town of its kind in the world.

My role included business and community development, local events, and initiatives -most notably helping attract (then Prince, now King) Charles to our iconic Farmers Market.

Approachable and enthusiastic, I’m ready to return to public service with a strong commitment to community wellbeing and connection.

What I Stand For:

• Bringing community together with purpose
• Mental health advocacy
• Intergenerational events and mentorship
• Pathways to jobs, education, and housing
• Supporting youth-led stewardship
• Fresh initiatives for business and economic growth

Our mantra:
We strive together. We thrive together.

(ACT Local: Real Change. Lower Rates.)

Phone: 022 455 2599
Email: aaron.mcleod@act.org.nz

Time and again, Manawatu District Council has put vanity projects and ideology ahead of ratepayers with more council debt, higher rates, yet poorer public services. The Council needs a shake-up to deliver on the things that matter.

Having lived in the Manawatu for nearly 15 years with my wife and kids, I have seen firsthand how much harder it is to raise a family locally. With my background as an Avionics engineer, I know how to solve complex problems and deliver practical solutions to maximise value out of every ratepayer dollar.

By giving me your vote as an ACT Local candidate, you know exactly what you are going to get: I will maintain and improve our roads and pipes, eliminate wasteful spending on vanity projects and consultants, and keep rates down.

If you want to see common sense back on the council table, please give me one of your votes.

(ACT Local: Real Change. Lower Rates.)

Phone: 027 220 9643
Email: jerry.pickford@act.org.nz

Ratepayers continue to be let down by Manawatu District Council with more wasteful spending, more bureaucracy and red tape, and poorer public services. It is time to give the Council a wake-up call and focus on the things that matter to local residents.

My long background in the construction sector means I know how to roll my sleeves up, solve problems, and get the job done, and having lived all my life in Manawatu, I understand deeply the issues our local community faces.

By voting for me as an ACT Local candidate, you know what you are going to get: I will deliver the essential infrastructure, cut out wasteful spending on vanity projects, guarantee more accountability and transparency over how decisions are made, and take race out of local politics.

If you want to see common sense back on the council table, please give me one of your votes.

(Independent)

Phone: 022 692 5891
Email: clive.raharuhi@me.com

Raised between Wellington and Feilding, I spent much of my youth in the Manawatū with whānau—working on farms and at the freezing works. Those early years shaped my values: hard work, fairness, and community. After living overseas in Australia and the United States, my wife and I have returned to give back to the place we call home.

I celebrate being Māori and Pākehā. My life reflects both, and I believe our diversity is something to honour—not something that should divide us. I bring experience as an international business and media consultant, property investor, youth pastor, and leadership mentor. I’ve also recently published my first book, The Busboy.

I’m standing for council to help build a future that honours our heritage and diversity, protects our environment, strengthens our economy, and includes and cares for everyone.

Together we can create a Manawatū that’s compassionate, innovative, and united.

Manawatū Together.

Phone: 027 440 1358
Email: wrightdec@xtra.co.nz

I have enjoyed living the Manawatu district for thirty-five years. I am standing for Council because I now have the time and energy to give something back to the community.

If elected, I will be a strong voice for those who contact me with a valid concern.

I have business experience, with my wife and I owning our own business for ten years. Prior to that, I was managing the largest Painting and Decorating company in the Manawatu.

I also have experience of governance having served on the board of Master Painters NZ for ten years, and Chairman of the Board for one term.

I would like to be part of a team that keeps the Manawatu district advancing and ensuring value for money and transparency for all rate payers.

(Te Kōtui Reo - Local Marae Collective)

Phone: 027 220 6386
Email: B.3m3ry@me.com

We have come too far not to go further; we have done too much not to do more.

This election I encourage the Manawatū community to consider the benefits of representation and inclusion the Māori ward brings for all residents. We are a community who take tremendous pride in our relationships with Māori.

When Māori are at the decision-making table, our district grows stronger. We gain insight, connection, and solutions shaped by lived experience. Our marae, kura (schools), whānau (families) and iwi make significant contributions daily, socially, economically and culturally. Representation simply ensures those contributions are reflected in the decisions that shape our lives.

The outcome of the referendum is not about politics. It’s about people. It’s about community and our future together. A vote to keep the Māori Ward is a vote that says Māori are valued here in our Manawatū District and always will be.

Kua tawhiti kē tō haerenga mai kia kore e haere tonu, he nui rawa ō mahi kia kore e mahi tonu.

I tēnei pōti, e akiaki ana ahau i a tātou o Manawatū kia whai whakaaro ki ngā painga o te Wāri Māori mō te katoa. He hapori e whakahīhī ana i ō tātou whanaungatanga.

Ka noho ana a Māori ki te tēpu, ka puta te māramatanga, ngā hononga me ngā hua i runga anō i te whakaaro kotahi ā, ka kaha kē atu tō tātou rohe. Ia te rā ka whai wāhi nui mai ngā marae, ngā kura, ngā tāngata ki ngā hua ā-hapori, ā-ōhanga, ā-ahurea hoki.

Ehara te Wāri Māori i te kaupapa tōrangapū, he kaupapa tangata, he kaupapa hapori kē, me tō tātou anamata. Ko te pōti kia mau tonu te Wāri Māori he tohu whakanui i tā Manawatū noho tahi ā, haere ake nei te wā.