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1715 days ago

West Coast mayoralty races under way

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

It's the end of an era – after 15 years the Grey District will have a new mayor.

Four candidates have put in nominations to replace long-standing mayor Tony Kokshoorn.

Kokshoorn has held the role since his landslide win against incumbent Kevin Brown in 2004, and has been elected unopposed four times.

Grey district councillor Tania Gibson was the first to put her hand up for the position.

She will run against long-term councillor and Runanga businessman Cliff Sandrey, West Coast Regional Council chairman Andrew Robb, and Richard Osmaston, a former Nelson candidate who campaigns against the use of money.

Buller mayor Garry Howard is also standing down. Five candidates will compete for the position: current councillor and Westport dairy farmer Jamie Cleine, former long-serving mayor Pat O'Dea, Westport photographer Charlie Bruning, rap artist Aaron Intemann, and lawyer Doug Taffs.

In Westland, incumbent mayor Bruce Smith is seeking a second term. He is going up against two sitting councillors: Gray Eatwell and deputy mayor Latham Martin. Also fighting for the mayoral spot are Ryan Kennedy from Okarito and Hokitika joiner John Mitchell.

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More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Poll: Does the building consent process need to change?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We definitely need homes that are fit to live in but there are often frustrations when it comes to getting consent to modify your own home.
Do you think changes need made to the current process for building consent? Share your thoughts below.

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.

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Does the building consent process need to change?
  • 91.6% Yes
    91.6% Complete
  • 8% No
    8% Complete
  • 0.4% Other - I'll share below!
    0.4% Complete
1258 votes
1 day ago

Lest we forget...

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

On this ANZAC Day, let's take a moment to remember and honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.

Tell us who are you honouring today. Whether it's a story from the battlefield or a memory of a family member who fought in the war, we'd love you to share your stories below.

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3 hours ago

Only 3 days left - 25% off adoption fees at SPCA

The Team from SPCA Westport - Centre & Op Shop

Why adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.

With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only affordable but also provide everything your new friend needs to thrive. And between until 28 April only, our adoption fees are 25% off!

Apply online and we will arrange a private meet-and-greet at a time that suits. ❤️

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