Get to know the individuals standing for election in the Whangārei Heads General Ward.
Each candidate is presented with their name, their affiliation, a personal profile statement, and a photo and short video message (if supplied).
These are provided to help you better understand who is running and what they stand for.
Candidate nominations closed at noon on Friday 1 August 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 Whangārei Heads General Ward area.
Candidate statement:
The number one job of Council is to ensure we can connect via our roads, access safe drinking water and trust the pipes when we flush. With a clear focus, we can keep a lid on rates rises and secure our base for the future.
I'm a mother of four, small business owner and lawyer, living on a small farm in Whangārei Heads since 2014. Our children have all been through Parua Bay School, where I served on the board and helped deliver the new building and football field.
My background includes government policy work, a Masters from London School of Economics, and service as a Disputes Tribunal Referee - experience that will help me make sound decisions and deliver outcomes for our community.
As a lawyer, I help people find solutions. That's what I'll bring to Council.
If you want a councillor committed to strong foundations - vote Baker.
Affiliation: N/A
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is in the Whangārei Heads General Ward area.
Candidate statement:
My name is Spencer Penney or Spence Penney as I am known to most. I consider myself a Whangarei Heads local having lived in the area since 1998. Having served as the local policeman for the Whangarei Heads area for 15 years I know and care deeply about the community and its people. My priorities as a council member will focus on protecting our unique environment, ensuring safer roads, supporting responsible development and improving essential infrastructure and services. I bring a strong understanding of local issues, a commitment to listening and a practical community first approach. Whangarei Heads is a special place. Together we can keep it safe, vibrant and well prepared for the future.
Affiliation: N/A
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is not in the Whangārei Heads General Ward area.
Candidate statement:
As a longtime resident, I have become increasingly concerned about the way our council has not been representing residents. Rates are going up at pace, and many are struggling to afford their own homes. We cannot afford to go further into debt on white elephant projects without addressing sewage overflows and other infrastructure problems. I will work to keep rates low while reducing our debt. I believe our council can do far better in terms of providing stronger direction to the bureaucracy within. I have put much work into empowering people to have their voices heard so that the things that really matter to you are prioritized. This is important to me. Taking on the role of councilor will be a step forward for me to help more people with this.
I support Whangarei leaving LGNZ and stand strongly against fluoridation.
I currently reside outside the Whangarei Heads ward.
No video supplied.
Affiliation: N/A
Area of residence: My principal place of residence is in the Whangārei Heads General Ward area.
Candidate statement:
Hi there,
I am a proud Whangarei local, having attended Glenbervie Primary and Kamo High schools, and raised my family here. I am passionate about the community and opportunities we have.
My career experiences includes farming, Electrician/Inspector and 45+ years employment at Northpower as Lines/Faultsperson, Control Room Operator, and in a Management role.
My wife and I live on our farmlet at Glenbervie and have three sons, and three grandies. I have volunteered in community projects and was elected to our local School Board of Trustees.
If elected to Council I commit to: Give my time and skills to proactively support the District I love; Scrutinizing rates charges to ensure value and transparency; Supporting projects that have the community and family interests at heart; Contributing to decisions which help local businesses prosper.
I believe I have the integrity, motivation and energy to proudly represent our community.
'Love it Here'
Tony