Kaimai General Ward

Share Kaimai General Ward on Facebook Share Kaimai General Ward on Twitter Share Kaimai General Ward on Linkedin Email Kaimai General Ward link

Kia ora and welcome to the Kaimai General Ward Councillor page.

Congratulations to the following who are standing for the three vacancies.

Important things to note:

  • Candidates were given the opportunity to film a 90 second video. Here is where you will find them.
  • Voting opens on 9 September and voting papers to be posted 9-22 September.
Drew Cowley

  • Phone: 027 302 6703
  • Email: drufuss@xtra.co.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
Having grown up in the Bay of Plenty and returned to Te Puna with my family 10 years ago, I have been actively involved in community advocacy for the last 7 years.
I bring exceptional commercial acumen, having successfully navigated a variety of projects and business types. My extensive expertise in commercial and strategic sourcing spans both capital and operational expenditure initiatives.
I am passionate about developing strategies that not only align business objectives, but hold community as the core reference point for all processes. Environmentally sustainable long-term focus, and total cost analysis have been the cornerstones of my professional career.
I am confident in my ability to listen, understand, and advocate for positive outcomes for all in our community. I will commit to nurturing, proactive, and productive relationships.
Demonstrating unwavering integrity, self-motivation, and reliability, I am committed to delivering outstanding, transparent results that drive holistic success for our district.


Tracey Coxhead

  • Phone: 027 681 7391
  • Email: tracey@traceycoxhead.co.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
I am seeking re-election for Council.
I’ve been a Financial Adviser with a work history in investment and finance, spanning 44 years and I have been fortunate to live in the Bay of Plenty for 17 years.
I promised I would defend what is right for this community and have listened to your concerns then acted accordingly. I have brought commitment, energy and compassion to my role, and faced difficult decisions with courage and integrity. I have taken my role seriously, with community at the heart of what I do.
It has been an honour to serve this community for the past three years and inspiring to witness the energy so many of you contribute towards making this a wonderful place to live.
I am intent on seeing this region thrive, for the sake of current and future generations.


Chris Dever

  • Phone: 027 449 7589
  • Email: elections@Dever.net.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Ōmokoroa Community Board Subdivision.
Raised on a farm but have spent most of my career in exec roles across business and government. I understand how to deliver practical results that matter to our community.
As Chair of the Ōmokoroa Community Board, and through my roles as a Justice of the Peace, Marriage Celebrant, Event MC, and Rotarian, I have proudly served the Western Bay of Plenty in many ways.
I believe the Council must be more transparent, more accountable, and easier for people to engage with. Ratepayers deserve confidence that their money is being spent wisely and effectively.
Fast-growing communities need strong attention to the basics - clean and affordable water, reliable rubbish services, well-maintained roads, and quality reserves. We also need serious progress on public transport, especially for residents in Ōmokoroa and Te Puna.
With your support, I will bring strong leadership, fresh thinking, and a genuine local voice to the Council table.


Graeme Elvin

  • Phone: 021 939 967
  • Email: graeme.elvin@outlook.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
Graeme brings decades of deep community connection to his candidacy. A former partner of Mackenzie Elvin, he has applied his legal expertise advocating for good people, navigating complex issues with them.
A Te Puna resident, Graeme is committed to community through extensive governance roles, including co-chair of the WBOP Primary Health Organisation, chair of Te Puna Rugby Sports and Cultural Club, and former board positions including Bay Venues Ltd, Northern Districts Cricket and Chiefs Super Rugby.
Graeme believes people come first, especially during challenging times when communities face polarisation and financial pressures. His approach emphasises building trust through good process and communication, weighing conflicting interests fairly, and making clear decisions after robust debate. With skills in mediation, negotiation, and advocacy, Graeme understands that effective governance requires owning mistakes and working collaboratively. He is committed to providing strong leadership, especially important given the rapid growth and expansion pressures of Western Bay.


Danielle Borell Faa'soo
  • Phone: 022 514 6169
  • Email: youthvote2025@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor.
Kia ora! I'm Danielle Borell-Faa’soo, I'm a proud 18-year-old and the youngest person to ever stand for local election for the Western Bay. My whānau have deep roots in this community, having lived in the WBOP for 125 years at our Homestead in Whakamārama. I am passionate about empowering our youth to actively participate in shaping the future of our city. I believe every young person has the potential to make meaningful contributions to decisions about rates, roads, and water management. I'm eager, enthusiastic, and ready to step into this important community role. I commit to ensuring youth voices are heard and valued, together we can make informed choices that lead to good decisions. Let’s work collaboratively to build a vibrant community where families can thrive. I invite you to give me your vote and support youth voices in local government. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone!


Murray Grainger

  • Phone: 027 936 7994
  • Email: murray@graingers.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
Graduated BE (Electrical) and post-graduate Diploma in Public Health Engineering; a qualification in subjects that Councils deal with: Water supply; wastewater; storm water; refuse disposal; and environmental noise. As a qualified Resource Management Hearings Chair, I understand issues affecting you that come to the Council table.
A career spanning central government department, engineering consultancy, private small business and finally Director of IT for a major UK charity, gave broad exposure to governance challenges and a comprehensive understanding of the technology issues and challenges Council staff deal with in this rapidly changing digital landscape.
My campaign budget is $0; no election letterbox clutter, no election roadside signs. I don’t waste my money on unnecessary things and I won’t waste your money with Council decisions.
I stand on my record of delivery and service to this community for 9 years. Tick Grainger to continue working for you.
Thanks for your support.


Destiny Leaf

  • Phone:
  • Email: destinyileaf@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
As a resident of Te Puna I am standing for Kaimai Ward
I am a dedicated volunteer and active community member, deeply committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those around me. My journey has led me to serve on various governance boards, where I strive to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making processes. I believe that a strong community thrives on collaboration and open dialogue, and my role on these boards allows me to advocate for the needs and interests of diverse groups.
Honesty is a fundamental value in my life guiding both my personal interactions and my professional endeavors. I approach every situation with integrity believing that trust is essential for effective leadership and meaningful relationships.
My practical decision-making skills enable me to assess situations thoughtfully and implement effective solutions.
Our rural roads need attention, road safety and capacity must be addressed.


Margaret Murray-Benge
  • Phone: 027 221 0388
  • Email: margaretmurray@outlook.co.nz
Independent
My principal place of residence is not in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor.
I’m Margaret Murray-Benge and for more than a decade I have been proud to serve the Kaimai community. I care deeply about its future.
I know the roads, the people and the challenges, and I have always worked hard to make sure Kaimai’s voice is heard around the Council table.
This election, I’m standing for both Mayor of Western Bay and again as a Kaimai ward councillor. While I would be honoured to lead our district as Mayor, I also want you to know that continuing to represent Kaimai region remains close to my heart.
I’ve fought for roads like Poripori, Soldiers, KumiKumi and the Omokoroa intersection; and pushed hard to restrain unaffordable rate increases.
I believe in putting people first and, whether as your Mayor or local councillor, I’ll keep speaking out and working hard for the people of the Kaimai ward. Please give me your vote.


Don Thwaites

  • Phone: 027 552 5103
  • Email: donthw@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor.
Married to Caroline for 39 years, 3 adult children, nearly 4 grandchildren.
Educated at Te Puna Primary, Otumoetai College and Massey University (Business degree with majors in Accounting and Finance)
The current long-term plan needs a complete rework, we must rewrite budget 2026-27
Focus on the key roles of Local Government – Roads, Reserves, three waters
2025 marks a reset – a Mayor and nine elected councillors have the opportunity to be decisive, nimble and an effective team. Their first job will be to appoint a new full-term Chief executive. The relationship between the Mayor and CE is vital, we need a top person in both roles.
I support a complete review of the rural section of the district plan – all options explored and presented back to you, the ratepayer for input.
Resource consent conditions must be upheld and monitored.
Facebook – Don Thwaites Western BoP Mayoral candidate 2025


Kia ora and welcome to the Kaimai General Ward Councillor page.

Congratulations to the following who are standing for the three vacancies.

Important things to note:

  • Candidates were given the opportunity to film a 90 second video. Here is where you will find them.
  • Voting opens on 9 September and voting papers to be posted 9-22 September.
Drew Cowley

  • Phone: 027 302 6703
  • Email: drufuss@xtra.co.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
Having grown up in the Bay of Plenty and returned to Te Puna with my family 10 years ago, I have been actively involved in community advocacy for the last 7 years.
I bring exceptional commercial acumen, having successfully navigated a variety of projects and business types. My extensive expertise in commercial and strategic sourcing spans both capital and operational expenditure initiatives.
I am passionate about developing strategies that not only align business objectives, but hold community as the core reference point for all processes. Environmentally sustainable long-term focus, and total cost analysis have been the cornerstones of my professional career.
I am confident in my ability to listen, understand, and advocate for positive outcomes for all in our community. I will commit to nurturing, proactive, and productive relationships.
Demonstrating unwavering integrity, self-motivation, and reliability, I am committed to delivering outstanding, transparent results that drive holistic success for our district.


Tracey Coxhead

  • Phone: 027 681 7391
  • Email: tracey@traceycoxhead.co.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
I am seeking re-election for Council.
I’ve been a Financial Adviser with a work history in investment and finance, spanning 44 years and I have been fortunate to live in the Bay of Plenty for 17 years.
I promised I would defend what is right for this community and have listened to your concerns then acted accordingly. I have brought commitment, energy and compassion to my role, and faced difficult decisions with courage and integrity. I have taken my role seriously, with community at the heart of what I do.
It has been an honour to serve this community for the past three years and inspiring to witness the energy so many of you contribute towards making this a wonderful place to live.
I am intent on seeing this region thrive, for the sake of current and future generations.


Chris Dever

  • Phone: 027 449 7589
  • Email: elections@Dever.net.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Ōmokoroa Community Board Subdivision.
Raised on a farm but have spent most of my career in exec roles across business and government. I understand how to deliver practical results that matter to our community.
As Chair of the Ōmokoroa Community Board, and through my roles as a Justice of the Peace, Marriage Celebrant, Event MC, and Rotarian, I have proudly served the Western Bay of Plenty in many ways.
I believe the Council must be more transparent, more accountable, and easier for people to engage with. Ratepayers deserve confidence that their money is being spent wisely and effectively.
Fast-growing communities need strong attention to the basics - clean and affordable water, reliable rubbish services, well-maintained roads, and quality reserves. We also need serious progress on public transport, especially for residents in Ōmokoroa and Te Puna.
With your support, I will bring strong leadership, fresh thinking, and a genuine local voice to the Council table.


Graeme Elvin

  • Phone: 021 939 967
  • Email: graeme.elvin@outlook.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
Graeme brings decades of deep community connection to his candidacy. A former partner of Mackenzie Elvin, he has applied his legal expertise advocating for good people, navigating complex issues with them.
A Te Puna resident, Graeme is committed to community through extensive governance roles, including co-chair of the WBOP Primary Health Organisation, chair of Te Puna Rugby Sports and Cultural Club, and former board positions including Bay Venues Ltd, Northern Districts Cricket and Chiefs Super Rugby.
Graeme believes people come first, especially during challenging times when communities face polarisation and financial pressures. His approach emphasises building trust through good process and communication, weighing conflicting interests fairly, and making clear decisions after robust debate. With skills in mediation, negotiation, and advocacy, Graeme understands that effective governance requires owning mistakes and working collaboratively. He is committed to providing strong leadership, especially important given the rapid growth and expansion pressures of Western Bay.


Danielle Borell Faa'soo
  • Phone: 022 514 6169
  • Email: youthvote2025@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor.
Kia ora! I'm Danielle Borell-Faa’soo, I'm a proud 18-year-old and the youngest person to ever stand for local election for the Western Bay. My whānau have deep roots in this community, having lived in the WBOP for 125 years at our Homestead in Whakamārama. I am passionate about empowering our youth to actively participate in shaping the future of our city. I believe every young person has the potential to make meaningful contributions to decisions about rates, roads, and water management. I'm eager, enthusiastic, and ready to step into this important community role. I commit to ensuring youth voices are heard and valued, together we can make informed choices that lead to good decisions. Let’s work collaboratively to build a vibrant community where families can thrive. I invite you to give me your vote and support youth voices in local government. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone!


Murray Grainger

  • Phone: 027 936 7994
  • Email: murray@graingers.nz
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
Graduated BE (Electrical) and post-graduate Diploma in Public Health Engineering; a qualification in subjects that Councils deal with: Water supply; wastewater; storm water; refuse disposal; and environmental noise. As a qualified Resource Management Hearings Chair, I understand issues affecting you that come to the Council table.
A career spanning central government department, engineering consultancy, private small business and finally Director of IT for a major UK charity, gave broad exposure to governance challenges and a comprehensive understanding of the technology issues and challenges Council staff deal with in this rapidly changing digital landscape.
My campaign budget is $0; no election letterbox clutter, no election roadside signs. I don’t waste my money on unnecessary things and I won’t waste your money with Council decisions.
I stand on my record of delivery and service to this community for 9 years. Tick Grainger to continue working for you.
Thanks for your support.


Destiny Leaf

  • Phone:
  • Email: destinyileaf@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area.
As a resident of Te Puna I am standing for Kaimai Ward
I am a dedicated volunteer and active community member, deeply committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those around me. My journey has led me to serve on various governance boards, where I strive to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making processes. I believe that a strong community thrives on collaboration and open dialogue, and my role on these boards allows me to advocate for the needs and interests of diverse groups.
Honesty is a fundamental value in my life guiding both my personal interactions and my professional endeavors. I approach every situation with integrity believing that trust is essential for effective leadership and meaningful relationships.
My practical decision-making skills enable me to assess situations thoughtfully and implement effective solutions.
Our rural roads need attention, road safety and capacity must be addressed.


Margaret Murray-Benge
  • Phone: 027 221 0388
  • Email: margaretmurray@outlook.co.nz
Independent
My principal place of residence is not in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor.
I’m Margaret Murray-Benge and for more than a decade I have been proud to serve the Kaimai community. I care deeply about its future.
I know the roads, the people and the challenges, and I have always worked hard to make sure Kaimai’s voice is heard around the Council table.
This election, I’m standing for both Mayor of Western Bay and again as a Kaimai ward councillor. While I would be honoured to lead our district as Mayor, I also want you to know that continuing to represent Kaimai region remains close to my heart.
I’ve fought for roads like Poripori, Soldiers, KumiKumi and the Omokoroa intersection; and pushed hard to restrain unaffordable rate increases.
I believe in putting people first and, whether as your Mayor or local councillor, I’ll keep speaking out and working hard for the people of the Kaimai ward. Please give me your vote.


Don Thwaites

  • Phone: 027 552 5103
  • Email: donthw@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Kaimai General Ward area. I am also standing for Mayor.
Married to Caroline for 39 years, 3 adult children, nearly 4 grandchildren.
Educated at Te Puna Primary, Otumoetai College and Massey University (Business degree with majors in Accounting and Finance)
The current long-term plan needs a complete rework, we must rewrite budget 2026-27
Focus on the key roles of Local Government – Roads, Reserves, three waters
2025 marks a reset – a Mayor and nine elected councillors have the opportunity to be decisive, nimble and an effective team. Their first job will be to appoint a new full-term Chief executive. The relationship between the Mayor and CE is vital, we need a top person in both roles.
I support a complete review of the rural section of the district plan – all options explored and presented back to you, the ratepayer for input.
Resource consent conditions must be upheld and monitored.
Facebook – Don Thwaites Western BoP Mayoral candidate 2025