Ōamaru teen Ethan Reille is always one to look out for the next opportunity, and what he has lined up next is certainly that.

The Labour Party announced on Tuesday (April 11) it has selected 18-year-old Ethan as its candidate for the Waitaki electorate in this year's general election on October 14.

Ethan told the Wānaka App he plans to spend a lot of time in Wānaka during the campaign, with his first visit planned for late next month. 

“Wānaka is fortunate to be a hotspot for tourists, but with that comes the need for skilled and welcoming workers,” he said.

“Wānaka is a leading region for the future of local business, and I want to ensure this is represented. Businesses need the financial confidence to employ their staff members and reward them for their excellent work. I’ll be a strong advocate to ensure this is a priority for our electorate.”

Last year’s Waitaki Boys’ High School head boy has crammed a lot into his years. 

He works as community development support at the Waitaki District Council, is a representative on the Stronger Waitaki stewardship group, chaired the Waitaki District Youth Council, and is Youth MP for Rachel Brooking MP.

The electorate has a diverse population, and Ethan said he wants to ensure all the voices of local people are heard.

“As a young person, I want to bring a future-focussed perspective to this campaign.

“Now more than ever, we need representatives who will work hard for the people they represent - no matter their politics or point of view. I've committed to doing this throughout my time in Waitaki."

Ethan said Waitaki’s healthcare, education facilities and small businesses deserve as much investment as cities, adding: “Labour understands this and, if elected, I’ll be a strong advocate for local services”.

“Our government is tackling the cost of living crisis, investing in rebuilding from recent storms and moving towards a low-carbon future. 

“This is the kind of focus Waitaki needs. We have a large electorate, from the corners of Wānaka to the coast of Ōamaru and to the south of Palmerston.

“I will be proud to represent Waitaki in parliament and be a strong, local and present voice for all Waitakians,” Ethan said.

Ethan told the Wānaka App that “age should not define one’s ability to represent and advocate for their community”.

“It comes down to their knowledge of their community, understanding of local issues and the passion they hold. I have all of these three, and I’m ready to get the job done.”

He noted that the youngest member of parliament was 20 years old and he was elected 170 years ago.

“I’d like to think in 2023 we could only do the same thing, and put trust in our young people. The issues our country [is] facing at the moment need an intergenerational response, to ensure we get it right for everyone.

The National Party candidate for the Waitaki electorate is Southburn-based farmer Miles Anderson. He has farmed for more than 20 years, and has served on the Federated Farmers board, and as chair of its Meat and Wool Industry Group.

PHOTO: Supplied