Since I joined Council in 2013 we’ve been steadily growing in all areas after years of decline.  Whanganui in still in a growth phase with rising population, house numbers, a net increase in jobs,  and rising consumer and businesses confidence.  For a healthy District, we need to keep this momentum going especially in light of pressures facing us since COVID.

I have been at the forefront of discussions around the Council table, supporting and arguing for changes to rating structures, marketing and reputation initiatives, encouraging businesses and supporting education and events.

The following list of significant projects, studies and changes have been completed:

• Town Centre Regeneration Plan is creating new murals, street scrapes such as Drews Avenue and the latest Streets 4 People funding from NZTA of $1.25m.
• We need to attract a 4 Star Hotel in order to keep growing our events, arts, sports and tourism sectors. A Hotel Attraction Strategy has been completed and we are now working hard to realise this goal.
• Almost all Council facilities have been earthquake strengthened
• We have new cycleways joining our suburbs to our town centre and the Ruapehu to Sea cycleway completed – all 85% subsided by Government
• River Road has been sealed.
• Fabulous new cycle bridge over the Whanganui River.
• Readjustment of the rating formula to decrease the rates burden on our building owners in the CBD – we need affordable retail.
• Taupo Quay road and car parking has been sealed and beautified, including the Saturday market area.
• The Sarjeant Gallery redevelopment is well-underway and due to open 2024.
• A buy local policy with a 5% margin in favour of local contractors has been put in place for council contracts under $100,000.
• Whanganui & Partners established as an organisation with a focus on enabling collaboration and economic growth in Business, farming, education, tourism, technology use and innovation.
• NZ Flight Academy established to bring in overseas students and maximise the use of our airport.
• NZ Glassworks established and thriving
• Heritage building facades in the CBD are being reinstated with a Council subsidy, making our town more vibrant.
• Our port is being rebuilt along with the North and South Moles to ensure we grow and sustain our marine industries such as Qwest Boatbuilders.