Returning regional councillor Michael Laws says Saturday’s election results represent “the best chance to reform the Otago Regional Council since its formation in 1989”. 

Michael and fellow incumbent Gary Kelliher will be joined by newcomers Matt Hollyer and Neil Gillespie to represent the Dunstan constituency at the regional decision-making table. 

The pair of incumbents campaigned under the fiscally conservative Vision Otago banner, alongside unsuccessful Wānaka-based candidate Nicky Rhodes. 

With Vision Otago candidate Hilary Calvert of Dunedin returned to her seat, and three other incumbents - Elliot Weir, Tim Mepham, and former vice-chair Lloyd McCall – losing seats to “candidates sympathetic to Vision Otago values”, Michael called it “a strong vote for reform”. 

Gary echoed that sentiment: “While our Vision Otago grouping didn't quite get the numbers we hoped for, there are some great new elected and incumbent re-elected councillors we know will align with our thinking,” he said. 

“Looking at the preliminary outcome, I think we still have the chance now to make a real meaningful change to how the ORC functions, get rates reduced and get more efficient in everything it does.” 

A former Central Otago deputy mayor and newcomer to regional government, Neil said he was "unconvinced" the early results could be interpreted as a “shift to the right”, as some commentators have suggested. 

“But I think it’s fair to say that the election of five new councillors will change the dynamics at the council table,” he told The Central App. 

“Councillors are elected as representatives for their constituencies. At the council table, it is essential that they work collaboratively to be effective governors,” he said.

“There’s no place for personal or hidden agendas, or pre-conceived views. All members need to ensure they fully understand the issues before them and have open minds as to the decision they will make.  

“They don’t have to agree with each other but there must be respect for the differing views that will invariably arise.” 

Michael said the interests of the Dunstan constituency would be well served. 

“I think Gary, Matt, Neil and myself will be a very good team in promoting our districts’ interests because the ORC has been conspicuous by its absence up until now,” he said. 

Newcomer Matt, who works in conservation in the Queenstown area, said the result was a “great bonus personally” as the election coincided with his birthday.  

“I’m thrilled to have the support of the community…and I look forward to making a contribution.” 

The Dunstan councillors will join Kevin Malcolm (Moeraki), Robbie Byars and Kate Wilson (Molyneux), and Hilary Calvert, Andrew Noone, previous chair Gretchen Robertson, Chanel Gardner, and Alan Somerville (Dunedin) to form the council.

Electoral officer Anthony Morton reminded voters the results were based on 85 percent of returned papers being counted, and special and last-minute votes could still affect the final outcome. 

PHOTOS: Supplied