Kia Ora
Welcome to my website. This page will give you some insight into who I am and my views on certain topics in relation to the Local Government Elections 2025.
As a councillor, the work is never complete, once elected you step into a stream of work that is ongoing and if you are not re-elected, you step out. Your aspiration is to have made a difference, done what you have said you wanted to do and that Kapiti is a better place for your involvement.
Below is the 150 words submitted with my nomination for both the Mayorality and Ward Councillor for Paraparaumu positions (of which I am one of the current ward Councillors)
One of the things I have found interesting looking back over the last 2 election cycles (2022 Campaign Information Tab) with regards to what I have wanted to achieve and at what I have actually achieved as your elected Paraparaumu Ward Councillor over the last 6 years.
Some Examples - and I will go more indepth in the “2025 Campaign information” Tab, are:
Rates- This has been an ongoing battle. I have continually pushed for lower rate increases, but as yet have not been successful. It has been challenging to learn how the rating system works as it's not straight forward. I do, however, have a plan on how to approach the next LTP. We are maxed out on rates in my opinion. It was disappointing that KCDC’s self imposed ceiling was sidelined at the last LTP. Please check the 2025 election tab for more details on my approach.
Housing- Needs assessment done, advocacy to Central Govt to build social housing in Kapiti, Community Housing trust established, independent board in place, Govt funding received for their first 22 houses in Otaki, seed funding supplied to 10 local housing initiatives, Older Person Housing rental levels kept affordable, currently a shake up in the regulatory space.
Economic Development- Strategy landed, ED team put together to deliver, Independent Board put in place to oversee delivery, Independent Trust set up for ongoing Economic Development looking to give a return to Kapiti Community over time, various business clusters in place ( Tourism, Food and Beverage, Tech etc … ), work force plan etc.
Council Culture- In my first term I found the culture quite adversarial, even confrontational, us vs them, a lack of support and timely information etc, and IMO this stemmed from the top. A new CEO was appointed at the beginning of this Triennum and what a difference this has made to the organization an empowered environment, and as councillors we are supported and well briefed, Council culture is changing for the better and this has led to positive relations both with the community and internally and more delivery from work streams. Great outcomes and things are tracking in a very positive direction. But it didn't happen by magic, it happened with intention and on my watch, which I am very proud of.
After having six years experience as a Councillor I can reveal, KCDC is a big and complex business. It takes time to get up to speed with all the different facets. I have had an inward focus on immersing myself in the system to develop understandings to be able to make informed decisions. I have also been outward focused towards our community, bringing that knowledge to assist people and groups in their engagement with KCDC as well as looking at how to achieve the aspirations of our community.
What should you look for in a Councillor or Mayor? People with relevant skill sets, diversity, experience and commitment to the role. Independence, rather than groups or political parties. Local Govt is about local, and having a diverse range of people at the table that bring different outlooks, skills and life experience is prudent. Each person has one vote and decisions are by majority.
Thank you for taking the time to research before your decision making at the upcoming elections. Please vote and encourage others to vote, and please support the Maori Wards in the Poll/Referendum.
Nga Mihi
Martin Halliday
​
​
