NZ Local Elections 2025

Mayor of Wairoa

The mayor is the leader of the council. Their job is to promote a vision for the district and lead the development of the council’s plans, policies and budget. The mayor appoints the deputy mayor, establishes committees for particular topics, and appoints chairs for those committees. This is a first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Wairoa District Council mayoral election.

Candidates

Policies

Explore the candidates in your area

Kurawari Panere

Kurawari Panere

Independent

Camden Gaskin

Camden Gaskin

Craig Little

Craig Little

Independent

Denise Eaglesome-Karekare

Denise Eaglesome-Karekare

Denise Eaglesome-Karekare

Deputy Mayor of Wairoa

Denise Eaglesome-Karekare

Deputy Mayor of Wairoa

Why I'm standing

Wairoa is my heart and my home. I'm standing for Mayor because I believe in the resilience of our people and the promise of our future. After years of service as Deputy Mayor, I know the challenges we face, but I also know the strength of our community. I want to lead with courage, unity and fairness, so every whānau can thrive.

About me

I bring over a decade of leadership experience, including 12 years as Deputy Mayor, and a lifetime of service to Wairoa. My roots are here, my whānau is here, and my commitment is to always put our community first. I will lead with heart, humility and courage, listen with intention, and work relentlessly to ensure Wairoa's voice is heard clearly and strongly in every decision that matters.

My priorities
  1. Strengthen flood protection and infrastructure so whānau, homes and businesses stay safe.
  2. Keep rates fair and affordable so whānau only pay for services they actually receive.
  3. Ensure strong systems so every whānau can access housing, health and support services.
Current role

Deputy Mayor of Wairoa

Residence

North Clyde

Connect via
Why I'm standing

Wairoa is my heart and my home. I'm standing for Mayor because I believe in the resilience of our people and the promise of our future. After years of service as Deputy Mayor, I know the challenges we face, but I also know the strength of our community. I want to lead with courage, unity and fairness, so every whānau can thrive.

About me

I bring over a decade of leadership experience, including 12 years as Deputy Mayor, and a lifetime of service to Wairoa. My roots are here, my whānau is here, and my commitment is to always put our community first. I will lead with heart, humility and courage, listen with intention, and work relentlessly to ensure Wairoa's voice is heard clearly and strongly in every decision that matters.

My priorities
  1. Strengthen flood protection and infrastructure so whānau, homes and businesses stay safe.
  2. Keep rates fair and affordable so whānau only pay for services they actually receive.
  3. Ensure strong systems so every whānau can access housing, health and support services.
Current role

Deputy Mayor of Wairoa

Residence

North Clyde

Connect via

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