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Kia ora and welcome to the Mayoralty candidate page.
Congratulations to the following who are standing for the one vacancy.
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.
Suaree Borell
Phone: 021 570 554
Email: whakamarama01@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Waka Kai Uru Māori Ward. As a proud Māori Samoan and landowner in the Western Bay of Plenty for 125 years, I am committed to the prosperity of our community. My family are Olympians in land stewardship and reflect my passion for sustainable practices and responsible governance. I advocate for women in governance, believing diverse voices strengthen our decision-making. Running my own Māori business, I specialise in programme evaluation and designing outcome frameworks for various public sector agencies. My focus areas include addressing rates, improving waste management, ensuring access to clean water, and fostering healthy environments and happy communities. I am passionate about creating a future where everyone feels valued and empowered. Together, we can build a community that honors our heritage while embracing innovation and inclusivity. I ask for your support to bring positive change to the Western Bay.
Grant Dally
Phone: 022 123 6850
Email: tepuke2@gmail.com
Basics Done Better My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Maketu-Te Puke General Ward. I’ve been a Councillor for 9 years and Community Board Member for 15 years. Married to Rhonda. Our daughter and 6yo grandson live with us on our Te Puke lifestyle property. They whakapapa to Ngati Ranginui, grandson also has Indian blood. My worklife has spanned engineering, sales, administration, hort/agri support. I was a retailer in Te Puke for 7 years. I’ve been involved in grassroots creative, environmental, motorsport and recreation group governance for 25+ years. I’m an engineer; commonsense, practicality and can-do attitude are our strengths. I’m confident advocating for our diverse communities, established good relationships with local Councillors and MP’s. I bring a collaborative, inclusive leadership style. No secrets, full disclosure. Better together. The Government say, focus on core services, while mandating more unfunded legislative requirements. Local democracy’s under threat. I’m up for the fight. I'll keep fighting for the little guy and the big issues. Visit www.grantdally.nz #basicsdonebetter
James Denyer
Phone: 021 858 007
Email: jamesdenyer4mayor@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. As the current Mayor I bring experienced leadership at a time of change in local government and a positive approach to the role. I will continue to deliver on critical infrastructure, and ongoing negotiations with central government are underway to achieve this. I have been active in the community for many years in a variety of leadership roles, including as President of Katikati Rotary, Chair of Aongatete Forest Project, and a board member of Bay Conservation Alliance. I am Deputy Chair for BOP Civil Defence Emergency Management and a qualified hearings commissioner. My background is in science and then corporate finance in London. I was part of the successful bid team for the London Olympics where I formulated the $2.5bn operating budget. I want to see good infrastructure, efficient services, effective planning for our future and sound financial management to deliver the best for our district and its people.
Danielle Borell Faa'soo
Phone: 022 514 6169
Email: youthvote2025@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Kaimai General Ward. I am Danielle Borell-Faa’soo, (my family have lived in the WBOP for 125 years at our Homestead in Whakamārama) and I stand for empowering our youth to actively participate in shaping the future of our city. I believe that every young person has the potential to contribute meaningfully to decisions regarding rates, roads, and water management. My commitment is to harness this power, ensuring that the voices of youth are heard and valued. Together, we can make informed choices that lead to effective infrastructure development and fair rate control, creating a vibrant community where families can thrive. In these challenging times, it is crucial that we unite and advocate for a brighter future. Let’s work collaboratively to build a city that reflects our aspirations and values. Give me your vote and support youth voice in local government.
John Holyoake
Phone: 027 829 1912
Email: johnholyoake@hotmail.com
Independent My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. The people working at WBOPDC are dedicated and work hard for you. I know this, because until recently I was the CEO at Council. That's why I understand the challenges and opportunities facing our Council, our communities and you better than anyone. Having worked across commercial and social sectors, I have over 20 years executive leadership experience. I am also a seasoned director on several commercial and community focused boards. I succeed through team, and through my strong relationships with the commercial sector, community, mana whenua and central government. I know what great governance looks like. Something our Council needs more of. If you want better, if you want someone that believes that great outcomes come from listening to community, delivering with community and working in partnership with mana whenua, then vote for me. Vote for Better. I live in Ōmokoroa with my family and love the Bay.
Rodney Joyce
Phone: 027 374 7933
Email: rodney@szf.co.nz
Independent My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Katikati-Waihī Beach General Ward. Our Council faces substantial change over the next three years. With the right leadership it will emerge streamlined and focused on the needs of residents and ratepayers. The impending separation of our waters assets must lead to lower costs or you face paying a lot more, through both increased waters charges and higher rates. Quite simply, business as usual is not sustainable. My family and I love the Western Bay, from our district’s stunning beaches, rivers and harbours to its beautiful bush trails and economically important rural sector. We have strong, vibrant communities. Council can only sustainably care for our residents and these local treasures by efficiently delivering core services. Using my experience in business, I have consistently fought for lower costs and greater efficiency at Council over the past three years. With your support, I will keep fighting for a focused Council that serves you. Read more at: www.rodneyjoyce.nz
Margaret Murray-Benge
Phone: 027 221 0388
Email: margaretmurray@outlook.co.nz
Independent My principal place of residence is not in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Kaimai General Ward. l'm Margaret Murray-Benge, and after more than 30 years in local government, I know one thing for sure: things have to change. As your Kaimai ward councillor, l've always argued for what matters - safer roads and affordable rates. But too many families are under real financial pressure, and council must do better. lf elected Mayor, l'll make every dollar count. l'll push hard to limit rate increases to the rate of inflation by reducing bureaucracy and eliminating all unnecessary spending. l'll work to ensure enough land is zoned for housing, to make housing more affordable. And l'll fight for long overdue road upgrades to make travel safer and faster for everyone. Public service means serving the public. l'll keep an open door, speak up even when it's unpopular, and always put people before politics. lf you believe things can be better, please give me your vote for Mayor.
Don Thwaites
Phone: 027 552 5103
Email: donthw@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Kaimai General Ward. Rates can be controlled (back in line with inflation). Focus on the basics of local govt – Roads, reserves, three waters. Scrutinise all other expenditure, line by line. Time to completely review the rural section of the district plan. Subdivision opportunities, number of dwellings permitted and all other sections reviewed with input from you – the ratepayer. Time to relocate our head office. Main office transferred Te Puke, a secondary base located to the best option west of the Wairoa River. TCC rates on our $21m+ current base are just too dear. The locked door between your new Mayor and councillors will vanish. Married to Caroline for 39 years, 3 children, nearly 4 grandchildren – hardworking, reliable, dependable Don is ready to work for you. My door will be open to everyone. Visit my facebook page - Don Thwaites Western BoP Mayoral candidate 2025 for much more about my thoughts.
Kia ora and welcome to the Mayoralty candidate page.
Congratulations to the following who are standing for the one vacancy.
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.
Suaree Borell
Phone: 021 570 554
Email: whakamarama01@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Waka Kai Uru Māori Ward. As a proud Māori Samoan and landowner in the Western Bay of Plenty for 125 years, I am committed to the prosperity of our community. My family are Olympians in land stewardship and reflect my passion for sustainable practices and responsible governance. I advocate for women in governance, believing diverse voices strengthen our decision-making. Running my own Māori business, I specialise in programme evaluation and designing outcome frameworks for various public sector agencies. My focus areas include addressing rates, improving waste management, ensuring access to clean water, and fostering healthy environments and happy communities. I am passionate about creating a future where everyone feels valued and empowered. Together, we can build a community that honors our heritage while embracing innovation and inclusivity. I ask for your support to bring positive change to the Western Bay.
Grant Dally
Phone: 022 123 6850
Email: tepuke2@gmail.com
Basics Done Better My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Maketu-Te Puke General Ward. I’ve been a Councillor for 9 years and Community Board Member for 15 years. Married to Rhonda. Our daughter and 6yo grandson live with us on our Te Puke lifestyle property. They whakapapa to Ngati Ranginui, grandson also has Indian blood. My worklife has spanned engineering, sales, administration, hort/agri support. I was a retailer in Te Puke for 7 years. I’ve been involved in grassroots creative, environmental, motorsport and recreation group governance for 25+ years. I’m an engineer; commonsense, practicality and can-do attitude are our strengths. I’m confident advocating for our diverse communities, established good relationships with local Councillors and MP’s. I bring a collaborative, inclusive leadership style. No secrets, full disclosure. Better together. The Government say, focus on core services, while mandating more unfunded legislative requirements. Local democracy’s under threat. I’m up for the fight. I'll keep fighting for the little guy and the big issues. Visit www.grantdally.nz #basicsdonebetter
James Denyer
Phone: 021 858 007
Email: jamesdenyer4mayor@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. As the current Mayor I bring experienced leadership at a time of change in local government and a positive approach to the role. I will continue to deliver on critical infrastructure, and ongoing negotiations with central government are underway to achieve this. I have been active in the community for many years in a variety of leadership roles, including as President of Katikati Rotary, Chair of Aongatete Forest Project, and a board member of Bay Conservation Alliance. I am Deputy Chair for BOP Civil Defence Emergency Management and a qualified hearings commissioner. My background is in science and then corporate finance in London. I was part of the successful bid team for the London Olympics where I formulated the $2.5bn operating budget. I want to see good infrastructure, efficient services, effective planning for our future and sound financial management to deliver the best for our district and its people.
Danielle Borell Faa'soo
Phone: 022 514 6169
Email: youthvote2025@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Kaimai General Ward. I am Danielle Borell-Faa’soo, (my family have lived in the WBOP for 125 years at our Homestead in Whakamārama) and I stand for empowering our youth to actively participate in shaping the future of our city. I believe that every young person has the potential to contribute meaningfully to decisions regarding rates, roads, and water management. My commitment is to harness this power, ensuring that the voices of youth are heard and valued. Together, we can make informed choices that lead to effective infrastructure development and fair rate control, creating a vibrant community where families can thrive. In these challenging times, it is crucial that we unite and advocate for a brighter future. Let’s work collaboratively to build a city that reflects our aspirations and values. Give me your vote and support youth voice in local government.
John Holyoake
Phone: 027 829 1912
Email: johnholyoake@hotmail.com
Independent My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. The people working at WBOPDC are dedicated and work hard for you. I know this, because until recently I was the CEO at Council. That's why I understand the challenges and opportunities facing our Council, our communities and you better than anyone. Having worked across commercial and social sectors, I have over 20 years executive leadership experience. I am also a seasoned director on several commercial and community focused boards. I succeed through team, and through my strong relationships with the commercial sector, community, mana whenua and central government. I know what great governance looks like. Something our Council needs more of. If you want better, if you want someone that believes that great outcomes come from listening to community, delivering with community and working in partnership with mana whenua, then vote for me. Vote for Better. I live in Ōmokoroa with my family and love the Bay.
Rodney Joyce
Phone: 027 374 7933
Email: rodney@szf.co.nz
Independent My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Katikati-Waihī Beach General Ward. Our Council faces substantial change over the next three years. With the right leadership it will emerge streamlined and focused on the needs of residents and ratepayers. The impending separation of our waters assets must lead to lower costs or you face paying a lot more, through both increased waters charges and higher rates. Quite simply, business as usual is not sustainable. My family and I love the Western Bay, from our district’s stunning beaches, rivers and harbours to its beautiful bush trails and economically important rural sector. We have strong, vibrant communities. Council can only sustainably care for our residents and these local treasures by efficiently delivering core services. Using my experience in business, I have consistently fought for lower costs and greater efficiency at Council over the past three years. With your support, I will keep fighting for a focused Council that serves you. Read more at: www.rodneyjoyce.nz
Margaret Murray-Benge
Phone: 027 221 0388
Email: margaretmurray@outlook.co.nz
Independent My principal place of residence is not in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Kaimai General Ward. l'm Margaret Murray-Benge, and after more than 30 years in local government, I know one thing for sure: things have to change. As your Kaimai ward councillor, l've always argued for what matters - safer roads and affordable rates. But too many families are under real financial pressure, and council must do better. lf elected Mayor, l'll make every dollar count. l'll push hard to limit rate increases to the rate of inflation by reducing bureaucracy and eliminating all unnecessary spending. l'll work to ensure enough land is zoned for housing, to make housing more affordable. And l'll fight for long overdue road upgrades to make travel safer and faster for everyone. Public service means serving the public. l'll keep an open door, speak up even when it's unpopular, and always put people before politics. lf you believe things can be better, please give me your vote for Mayor.
Don Thwaites
Phone: 027 552 5103
Email: donthw@gmail.com
My principal place of residence is in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area. I am also standing for Kaimai General Ward. Rates can be controlled (back in line with inflation). Focus on the basics of local govt – Roads, reserves, three waters. Scrutinise all other expenditure, line by line. Time to completely review the rural section of the district plan. Subdivision opportunities, number of dwellings permitted and all other sections reviewed with input from you – the ratepayer. Time to relocate our head office. Main office transferred Te Puke, a secondary base located to the best option west of the Wairoa River. TCC rates on our $21m+ current base are just too dear. The locked door between your new Mayor and councillors will vanish. Married to Caroline for 39 years, 3 children, nearly 4 grandchildren – hardworking, reliable, dependable Don is ready to work for you. My door will be open to everyone. Visit my facebook page - Don Thwaites Western BoP Mayoral candidate 2025 for much more about my thoughts.
