Tena Koutou Katoa

My Name is Whitu Karauna and I am standing for the position of Mangakino/Pouakani Representative on the Taupo District Council.

I am married with three tamariki and three mokopuna.  I live in Mangakino.  Having played in Provincial Teams in three sports and represented NZ in Touchfootball I understand the importance of being a Teamplayer.

I am voluntarily involved with the Mangakino Areas School, Pouakani Marae, Sports & Leisure Association Mangakino and as a Community Representative for the Mangakino/Pouakani Subcommittee.

Experience has shown me that by working together positive results can be achieved.

Having worked in the Rural Sector in Transport and Fertiliser and currently as a Self Employed Plumber  I understand the challenges faced in these difficult times. 

As a Mangakino/Pouakani Representative I would strive to ensure the lines of Communication between Council and the Ratepayers of the Ward are Open.

Top 5 Issues

1. Communication and Consultation - I believe the Stakeholders, Town and Rural Communities, Marae Whanau, Iwi be kept informed of what is happening in their own backyard.
   If elected I aim to meet regularly to hear concerns and act upon them.
   
2. Making sure that Ratepayers money is not being wasted.
3. Effective Mangakino/Pouakani Ward Representation
   A Voice on Council for Town and Country.
   
4. Protecting our natural assets for our Future Generations. Assisting entities to further develop our natural resources. Liasing with other agencies and groups to access the correct information.
5. Team Work amongst Council Members. The importance of Respectful Relationships to create Positive Leadership.
   

Personal Profile

 

 

• Local Craftsman Self Employed Plumber for 10 years prior to which I was Employed by Western Bay Transport Ltd, a family owned managed and run Rural Business servicing the Pouakani District and wider. I was employed there as a Storeman,Truckdriver and Operations Manager for 10 years during which many farms were converting to Dairy.
• I have been married for 20 years and have three children who were all educated at Mangakino Area School in the Rumaki Reo Unit/Te Reo Maori Immersion Unit. I am the proud grandfather of 3 mokopuna/grandchildren.  
• Passionate about the Community we live in and regard the Whole District as my Community. 
• Not afraid to put my hand up and get a job done, I am voluntarily involved with the Community and will fill in as and when needed.
• Currently the Deputy Chair on the Pouakani Marae Trustees, we are in the final stages of rebuilding our Marae which burnt down in 2007.  As a Maori Representative I am ever aware of the needs of not only this Marae but the other Marae in the District and the need for a stronger united voice  that is reflective of the different iwi associated with each Marae Whanau and individual issues affecting them. 
• A keen sportsman who enjoys playing sport at all levels.  I have represented King Country/Tihoi/Mangakino in Sevens/Rugby, NZ in Touch Football and played  Rugby League for Midlands, Mangakino, Putaruru  and  Taupo Broncos.
• Current Chairman on the Board of Trustees at Mangakino Area School.