Featherston Business Women Liz Mellish

Mayoral Candidate for South Wairarapa
Although the formal announcement for the Mayoralty has been announced I believe it is important that I continue to inform citizens and ratepayers about the attributes I believe I can offer in this role.
My overwhelming reason for standing for public office is to serve the peoples of this district. This district has rich diversity. I am sure economic growth that has been spearheaded by Martinborough and Greytown can be enhanced with positive strategic development for the gateway town Featherston giving the south the trifecta and leadership for Wairarapa.

The three district councils in Wairarapa are currently working through with Local Government NZ to reach agreement for amalgamation to make a Wairarapa wide Council in some form or another. This will bring challenges ensuring the south gets the appropriate voice in this scenario and ensures that ratepayers are well serviced and the key functions are maintained to a high standard.
I believe I have the experience and skills to be a strong advocate for the south whilst understanding the entire valley needs.

Whilst I have business experience both large and small I would like to highlight the real governance roles I have currently. I am the Chairman of Palmerston North Maori Reserve Trust and have had this role for four years. The trust has an asset base of more than $80 million. I am a Director on Metlifecare Palmerston North Retirement Village, I am also a Director of the Wharewaka O Poneke Ltd, this company manages the business of the Wharewaka as a function centre and a start- up cultural tourism business. I am a Director of a management company Hikoikoi Management Ltd based in Petone. I am a Director on a property management company tasked with developments in Thorndon Quay called Haukawakawa Ltd.

In my personal contracting business I have been closely involved with Wellington City Council, Hutt City Council, Upper Hutt City Council and Greater Wellington as a Natural Resources Advisor for Te Atiawa Iwi.
To conclude an important part of the Mayoralty is to weld a team with the elected Councillors, the CEO and staff to ensure that our citizens are informed able to be involved in decision making and feel heard by those they chose to elect. My strength has been in leading a team where all have been able to participate and be valued.