Why am I running for council?

Kia ora, here are my answers to three questions I was asked as to why I am standing for the Taranaki Regional Council.
What are the biggest issues facing the TRC and the region?
The council’s environmental monitoring shows riparian planting and fencing has improved the health of waterways but more work is needed given the increasing impacts from climate change such as warmer temperatures, increasing storms, droughts and soil erosion. I have spent many years working with Taranaki landowners to fence and plant waterways as well as growing healthy food to feed local communities. I have the progressive ideas needed to support our communities in this rapidly changing world.
What would you prioritse to improve the environment?
We need to continue TRC’s work over recent years to find agreement among iwi, farmers and town residents, to finalise a robust new Freshwater Plan that prioritises the health of our waterways. We also need to urgently transition the regional economy to run on renewable energy and reduce our emissions. Regenerative agriculture, the expansion of our public transport and our continued collective opposition to seabed mining all need to be key components of stepping up for thriving communities.
What do you bring to the Council table?
I am passionate about rural Taranaki and have experience in working with the land, growing food and serving the community including governance experience and financial management on trusts and incorporated societies. I want to amplify local voices to create positive change for our region. As a market gardener and horticultural educator, I know how to implement diverse community-based farming systems. I pledge to donate half my council salary to local environmental and community projects.