Nominations for candidates for this October’s local body elections open today (Friday July 15), and so far there are only a couple of new options for Wānaka, while a few familiar faces are stepping down.

This year Upper Clutha locals have the opportunity to vote for four councillors for the newly named Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward of the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) - up from three - and four members of the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board (WCB).

One new face for council

There is one newcomer putting their hand up for the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward so far: Cody Tucker of Lake Hāwea, a long-term resident and member of the Hāwea Community Association.

Cody announced his candidacy on social media, saying: “It's no question the world is hurting and we all need something good to look forward to so I’m trying to help build a hopeful future for my hapori.”

“We have our fair share of issues to tackle, diversifying primary industries, affordable housing, public transport, a climate crisis, an infrastructure crisis, strengthening and empowering communities and growing in a sustainable way.

“I’m looking to be someone you can come up to to share your hardships and to represent a younger voice in local council.”

Cody, 27, is an industrial designer and singer songwriter. He said “honest, but critical thinking, communication and collaboration are my Vogels and Olivani”.

Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward incumbents 

Among the three Wānaka incumbents only Quentin Smith has confirmed he will stand again.

“Once more unto the breach,” Quentin announced on social media. “Another three years have come around so fast and with your help I am standing again to continue to represent the Upper Clutha Community,” he said. Quentin has served two terms on the QLDC.  

Changing places: (From left, rear) Barry Bruce is running again, as is Chris Hadfield. Niamh Shaw is not. Ed Taylor has stood down. Jude Battson hasn’t confirmed her intentions, nor has Calum MacLeod. Quentin Smith is keen for another term. PHOTO: QLDC

Niamh Shaw, who has been a councillor for one term, announced this week she was not running again.

“Serving as a councillor has been tricky and thrilling and frustrating and incredibly varied in scope, and I am incredibly grateful to have been granted the opportunity to fulfil it,” she said.

“There are several factors that have informed my decision, both personal and professional.”

Niamh said she would continue to serve the community “in other ways that are more suitable for me at this time”. 

Deputy mayor Calum MacLeod did not respond to the Wānaka App’s query.

Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board - four places

There are four places around the board, and four possible candidates so far.

Wānaka business advisor and active transport advocate Simon Telfer announced last month that he would stand for the board.

“The Wānaka Community Board has an opportunity to reclaim its influence and respect. To lead our town in a future focused, positive and inspiring way,” Simon said.

“We need more energy on the board to champion initiatives on behalf of Wānaka, rather than just reactively responding to whatever is presented by QLDC staff.

Read more: Simon Telfer to stand for Wānaka Community Board

“If elected, I will bring a fresh energy and a proactive attitude to the board, plus a track record of both working with, and challenging, QLDC.”

Simon has served as a Bike Wānaka committee member; he leads Active Transport Wānaka’s advocacy to build a network of safe cycleways; and in 2020 chaired the district wide Regenerative Recovery Advisory Group.

WCB chair Barry Bruce confirmed to the Wānaka App that he will stand again. 

He said he enjoyed his first term in local government, and added it was satisfying to finally see “projects completed, underway and in planning that will serve our communities well into the future”.

He said he wants to address “the wider issue of improving our economic diversity, (less reliance on tourism and construction as our main economy drivers) encouraging a more diverse business community”.

“The other major items I wish to champion are, ensuring infrastructure projects are delivered on time, not having to react to a problem. Improved communication and engagement and preparing for local government reforms.”

Chris Hadfield is also standing again. 

“There is unfinished business and I will continue to act as an advocate for the local community. I hope to enhance the engagement with you all and ensure everyone feels like they have been heard,” he said.

Jude Battson responded to the Wānaka App while overseas, and said she will focus on campaigning once she returns, however, she didn’t give a clear “yes”.

“If lots of amazing people stand, I will consider not standing,” she said.

Ed Taylor announced in April that he would not stand again, after serving two terms on the board.

Ed strongly encouraged locals to get involved with this year’s local body elections.

“For the most part it’s been a very rewarding experience and I would urge anyone who wants to be part of helping shape the town’s future to put their name forward,” he said.

Mayoral candidates

After two terms, mayor Jim Boult has called time, and so far there are four candidates vying to take his place.

The first to announce his candidacy was former Labour Party candidate Jon Mitchell, followed by Startup Queenstown Lakes CEO Olivia Wensley.

Frankton-based councillor Glyn Lewers was next, and most recently regular mayoral candidate Al Angus put his hat in the ring.

Find council information about running for election here.