Celebrating diversity, accessibility, representation, respect for all cultures, LGBTQIA+ rights, and creating a council that reflects everyone.
Revitalising the city centre, supporting local creatives, boosting events, attracting people into town, making Nelson feel alive again.
Safe neighbourhoods, climate responsibility, better transport, and smart decisions made with the next generation in mind.
I’ve lived in Nelson since 2002, where my wife Alison and I raised our two children. I’ve worked as
an
airline pilot for over 25 years, and I’m also a passionate musician. I play in the Nelson Symphony Orchestra and enjoy being part of our local arts community.
I’m standing for council because I care deeply about our future. I want to help build an inclusive,
thriving and sustainable Nelson, where families feel supported, the city centre is full of life, and
decisions are made with the next generation in mind. I’d be honoured to represent you.
Nelson has given so much to my family, and I’ve always looked for ways to give back. Over the years, I’ve been actively involved in numerous community projects, particularly those that bring people together through music, creativity, and connection.
I’m a long-time member of the orchestra and currently serve as Chair of the committee. We work to make classical music accessible and engaging for all ages across our region.
As a former President, I helped organise the annual Jazz Festival and supported local musicians through performances and events that brought vibrancy to the city.
I regularly play in small ensembles that perform at retirement villages and community spaces, bringing joy and connection through live music.
Until recently, I was the Chief Flying Instructor, mentoring local pilots and supporting youth interested in aviation.
I publish a quarterly magazine for a national car club and participate in local heritage motoring events, celebrating the history and culture of transport in New Zealand.
I’m used to working collaboratively to achieve goals — whether it’s a safe flight or a successful concert. With a background in science, I understand the long-term context of climate change and the urgent need to rethink how we manage transport, energy, and food production. We’re no longer in the dark about our impact on the planet. The cost of inaction won’t fall on us, but on our children and grandchildren. That’s why I believe in practical, meaningful changes that reduce our footprint without compromising quality of life.
- Supporting alternative and active forms of transport - Encouraging solar panels and energy efficiency in new builds - Ensuring homes are well-insulated and future-ready - Exploring alternative fuels to reduce the impact of personal transport, while still preserving the cultural heritage of classic cars and bikes.
- Understand the complexities of the challenges ahead - Communicate clearly and listen deeply - Lead with empathy and experience - Put the well-being of people and the planet at the heart of every decision
- Safe, vibrant communities - Clean rivers and beaches to swim in - National parks to explore - Active city centres full of creativity, sport and connection These are the treasures of Aotearoa — and especially of Whakatū Nelson. Don’t vote for me if you’re looking for simple solutions to complex problems. They don’t exist — and anyone saying otherwise isn’t being honest. Vote for me if you want someone who is balanced, experienced, and genuinely committed to doing the work needed to protect and enhance our region for generations to come.
APRIL: Enrolment update packs sent to all enrolled voters
1 AUGUST: Enrolment closes for the printed electoral roll. You can still enrol for a period after this date by contacting Nelson’s Electoral Officer on 0800 666 048.
9-22 September: Voting documents delivered.
9 SEPTEMBER: Voting begins.
11 OCTOBER: Election day, voting closes at 12 noon and progress results expected later in the day.
To enrol to vote or update your details, visit the website of the Electoral Commission.
Information on local elections in 2025 can be found at Vote NZ.