Meet the councillor : Martin Bosley

(First of a series)

Martin Bosley grew up listening to the sound of the waves in a coastal community and he adores seafood so he shares what led to his new love of the landscape, community and food culture in the South Wairarapa

How long have you been a councillor and which ward do you live in?

This is my first term and I live in Greytown. 

What inspired you to stand as an elected member for South Wairarapa District Council?

I had a bad accident at home and it sparked my community involvement because of the incredible generosity of people in the community. People I had never met before brought food and drink around and one guy even came round to mow my lawns. The whole experience and generosity was incredibly humbling. 

I don’t think it was because of me being Martin Bosley, the chef. It is how communities are in the South Wairarapa. I’ve always been interested in politics but never had any pretensions of being in politics or local government until I experienced that generosity. So I stood and got voted in, which surprised me. 

What achievement are you most satisfied with as an elected member?

I’ve worked hard for the memorial building in Stella Bull Park in Greytown to be kept for community. I’m also a big fan of the heritage vision in Greytown where residential and commercial properties can exist side by side. That’s something I feel quite passionate about.

What change would you like to see?

I would like us to think more in terms of being a district when we make decisions. We’ve got to stop thinking in terms of these three silos of Greytown, Featherston and Martinborough. They are part of the same district and we have got to think about them all as part of the same place. 

What has surprised you most about being part of council? 

The sheer number of things the council looks after from libraries and swimming pools to infrastructure. I’ve also learnt that there’s a process to bringing change and it requires patience. 

Where were you born and bred and where do you consider home? 

I was born in the United Kingdom, raised on the Kapiti Coast from the age of seven and moved to the Wairarapa six years ago. This is home now and I love it. 

Where is your favourite place in the South Wairarapa and why?

The countryside. I go fly fishing in the river with my dog and within 10 minutes of leaving my front door, I’m there in the Waiohine River. There are very few places on earth where you can do that. 

If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be?

The Dordogne in the south of France. I love it. If you’re into food and wine, it’s the place to be. Gascony is its heart and soul and is home to all the things I like about food. Duck confit, truffles and all incredibly simple. Some of the best meals of my life have been there. 

What is your ideal meal and where would it be?

Roast chicken with very buttery mashed potatoes and squeaky green beans with lots of butter. And lemon tart for dessert. 

Who is your hero in real life? 

My daughter. She embodies courage, resilience and love. Through her actions, she inspires me to be my best self, every day. She demonstrates strength and kindness beyond her years. Her unwavering support and belief in me ignites a fire within, motivating me to pursue my dreams and face life’s obstacles with determination. She reminds me of the beauty in simplicity and the power of unconditional love. In her presence, I find solace, hope and the true meaning of heroism. 

Which writer do you most enjoy? 

Marcus Aurelius, revered stoic philosopher and Roman Emperor. His profound insights on life, virtue and resilience resonate across centuries.

How do you unwind and relax? 

Walking the dog by the river. 

This is one of a series of profiles of South Wairarapa District Council members.