Northland born I have been resident in Whangarei for 30 years. Married to Jean we have 2 adult children and 1 grandson.
A career in Management and Accounting included 13 years successful retailing in Whangarei’s CBD. Serving as a Councillor, I also work as a Property Administrator and Acountant.
I participate in numerous community organisations, have Chaired the Whangarei Lions Club and Quarry Gardens Trust. Presently Chair of the Art Museum, Treasurer Quarry Gardens Trust, Trustee Whangarei Tourism Trust, Marina Management Trust and Hihiaua Cultural Centre Trust.
I believe volunteer participation is the backbone of our community.
Qualified to hear Planning applications, I spend considerable time participating in our District Plan review and Chair the District Licensing Authority.
My priorities for the next term include improving Council communication, protecting employment during the recession and implementing, financially responsible, long term improvement to our infrastructure, parks and environment.
Top 5 Issues
- Protection of jobs and economic devlopment. With the recession really starting ot bite there is a danger of further significant job losses in the nect 3 years. We must do what we can to encourage investment in new jobs in our district.
- Harbour protection. We must continue upgrading our sewerage net work to minimise infiltration into the harbour . We must also work on the background contamination which contributes as much pollution to our waterways.
- Affordability of council services. We have trimmed a lot of fat out of the operational budget in Whangarei District and we must continue doing so to make sure that a return is given on every dollar spent. we must maintain rate rises to no more than inflation.
- Restriction of debt levels. We have capped debt and must keep within that budget to minimise unproductive interest apyments.
- Long term planning and district plan review. We have made great steps in improving our plans over the last few years and must continue to provide a clear path for future development affordably.
Personal Profile
Authorised by Merv Williams of 32 Hawken Road, Maunu
- 2007
- 2010
Whangarei District Council - Okara Ward
Results - Final
- Morris Cutforth
- 5097
- Sue Glen
- 4694
- Merv Williams
- 3885
- Aaron Edwards
- 3103
- Brian McLachlan
- 3047
- Warren Slater
- 2740
- Craig Pollard
- 1264
- Don Hedges
- 747

Craig Pollard
Warren Slater