The Wānaka App challenged the eight candidates hoping to represent the newly named Wānaka Upper Clutha Ward with four questions - to be answered in only 15 words or fewer.

The eight candidates vying for four seats are (in alphabetical order) Barry Bruce, Oliver Burke, Lyal Cocks, Ross McCarthy, Daniel Shand, Quentin Smith, Cody Tucker, and John Wellington. 

Daniel Shand did not respond to the Wānaka App’s request.

1. What makes you qualified to represent this community?

Barry: Long term commitment. Proven management and business skills. No personal agenda. Understanding of the role of governance.

Olly: Twenty-seven years here building on relationships in many industries and communities that make up Wānaka.

Lyal: Lived in Wanaka 24 years, served community 12 years as elected representative; extensive management and governance experience.

Ross: I have a great business mind, strive for creativity and innovation (thinking outside of the square). Masters degree in product design enterprise.

Quentin: Trust and integrity are the primary qualifiers but 20 years experience in or with local government helps.

Cody: Being a young voice who is already taking initiative and leadership in my community.

John: Twenty-four years community service with time, desire and tenacity to ensure Wānaka gets investment required. 

2.  What is the greatest challenge facing our area that you are most passionate about addressing?

Barry: Interpreting and maximising district advantages dictated by central government proposed reforms, eg Three Waters, Resource Management Act and local government review.

Olly: Sensible and practical forward planning to address the challenges of growth in the Upper Clutha.

Lyal: Transport projects catering for bike paths, public transport, road improvements, parking and the airport.

Ross: Three Waters is a major issue. We must keep this asset. Airport and housing also major issues.

Quentin: Pressures of rapid growth and cost of keeping up with demands remain the biggest challenge. 

Cody: The cost of living which incorporates affordable housing and transport. 

John: Getting Wānaka’s voice heard at council and priority, proactive investment to avoid Queenstown’s mistakes. 

3. What is the QLDC not doing in the Upper Clutha that it should be?

Barry: An equal balance of senior staff domiciled in Wānaka Upper Clutha to ensure a better understanding of local issues and events.

Olly: Distributing funding appropriate to the population in the Upper Clutha ward. 

Lyal: Empowering the Upper Clutha Wānaka Community Board to make decisions on key local issues by providing resources, honouring delegations.

Ross: We need change. Stop money wasting and innovate a sustainable community.

Quentin: We are the fastest growing community in the country and we are not keeping up with the demands of change. Focus on community infrastructure is one area that needs work. 

Cody: Engaging the community in better ways. Make it easy and less time intensive to be involved and heard.

John: Investing proactively in active/public transport, Wānaka Masterplan and more support for  innovative affordable housing options. 

4. What's your vision for Upper Clutha in 20 years time?

Barry: A well planned inclusive community with services and social support for all age groups and sectors.

Olly: Another highschool or tertiary institution, indoor ski area and options for youth to stay here.

Lyal: To still be the best place to live with a healthy lake, thriving economy and nurturing communities.

Ross: In 20 years our community should be a leader in sustainable growth.

Quentin: That it is still a great place to live and has not been denigrated by the downsides of growth and tourism.

Cody: An active community where people feel connected, inspired and with a light touch on the environment. 

John: An active, integrated and resilient community with employment and affordable housing options for our children.

PHOTOS: Supplied