Get to know the individuals who stood for election for Mayor.
Each candidate is presented with their name, their affiliation, a personal profile statement, and a photo.
These were provided to help you better understand who ran and what they stood for.
Candidate nominations closed at 12 noon on Friday 1 August 2025.
Voting closed at 12 noon on Saturday 11 October 2025.
Notice of day of election, poll and nominations received for the 2025 local elections(PDF, 164KB)
Click 'Next' to see the candidates.
Affiliation: N/A
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is in the Mayor - Whangarei District Council area.
Candidate statement:
Over the past three years, I've focused on strengthening Whangarei's infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and making council more transparent and accessible. I've worked hard to ensure decisions are made locally with the best interests of our people and future generations in mind.
Under my leadership Council has made solid progress across key areas - from transport and infrastructure to environmental protection and community wellbeing. I'm committed to continuing this momentum and delivering real results for every part of our district.
Being fully accessible to the public has always been my mantra, along with open communication, responsible leadership, and a shared vision of putting our people first. With your support, I'll keep working to build a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future for our people.
I'm honoured to stand for a second term as Mayor, and proud of what we've achieved together. I'm committed to keep Whangarei moving forward - stronger, smarter, united.
www.votevince.co.nz
Affiliation: N/A
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is in the Mayor - Whangarei District Council area.
Also standing for: Bream Bay General Ward
Candidate statement:
As your mayoral candidate, I'm committed to responsible leadership and practical solutions.
We're in a cost of living crisis, people are hurting. I'll fight to keep rates rises affordable. I'll cut unnecessary Council spending, get better returns from our commercial properties, and work with neighbouring councils to save money through shared services like payroll, IT and HR. I'll rebuild trust with central government to secure our fair share of funding, and push to boost the Rates Rebate Scheme for struggling Gold Card holders.
I've served two terms on Council - experience matters. I'll lead fairly and with accountability. I won't use the Mayor's casting vote to take the government to court. My focus will always be on what's best for the people of Whangārei, not politics.
I'm here to serve the community, not burden it. I'm asking for your help to bring a vision of growth and resilience to Whangārei.
Affiliation: Independent
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is in the Mayor - Whangarei District Council area.
Also standing for: Whangārei Urban General Ward
Candidate statement:
My extensive, proven leadership experience in civil infrastructure and governance roles across Community, Schools, Iwi, Business, and Sports Organisations has equipped me with the skills to lead effectively. With over 30 years in senior management within the civil construction industry, I have a deep understanding of how council projects operate from the ground up. I prioritise collaboration, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and getting things done - qualities essential for a Mayor, regardless of prior council tenure. Additionally, nearly 40 years of governance in local sports organisations and over 15 years leading school boards (both primary and secondary) demonstrate my ability to work collaboratively in diverse environments.
Affiliation: N/A
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is in the Mayor - Whangarei District Council area.
Candidate statement:
Tired of the same old story for Whangarei? I'm Fiona. I'm an entrepreneur and a fashion designer newbie. I'm ready to bring fresh energy and practical solutions to our District Council. Forget empty promises - I'm focussed on real improvements. My preference is for an all-male team with me supporting my team. I have found working with men - energising because they are logical, straight up and don't harbour grudges for a lifetime. I'm passionate about Whangarei's future and committed to working collaboratively with our community. I'll listen to your concerns and advocate for a District that is vibrant, affordable and sustainable. I am an experienced Administrator with a proven record in rural, coastal, urban community contributions, and social justice advocacy. Vote Fiona Green. Let's build productive communities and bring pride back to the role of being a public servant. 'Google' search my name online - Fiona Green + Whangarei.
Affiliation: Independent
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is in the Mayor - Whangarei District Council area.
Also standing for: Whangārei Urban General Ward
Candidate statement:
I'm running for Mayor because Whangarei deserves better leadership and a council that truly serves its people.
As a nurse, I've worked from Whangarei to England and Australia's outback, always putting people first. As a councillor for three years, I've witnessed mismanagement and declining democracy first hand. Enough is enough - I'm ready to lead the change we need.
My vision is built on three priorities: (1) Putting ratepayers first with genuine community engagement and accountable councillors; (2) Making rates affordable by eliminating wasteful spending; (3) Focusing on essentials - roads, water, and waste - not costly, flashy projects driving rate hikes.
With integrity, honesty, and determination, I'll give 110% to deliver a prosperous Whangarei that listens and gets results.
Vote #1 for Marie Olsen to spark real change. Thank you.