Mel Maynard
What is the main reason you are standing for Council?
I am approachable and listen to the people in my ward when they tell me about the things which are important to them. I am excited to continue to represent the unique Martinborough voice when I am at the Community Board table.
What previous experience have you had in managing within a business, government agency and/or in any governance role?
This will be my 3rd triennium as a Martinborough Community Board member. I have a proven 6 year track record in this governance role. I have also had over 20 years’ experience working within Central and Local Government.
What are the three most critical issues that you feel need to be addressed in the South Wairarapa?
The Martinborough Wastewater upgrades and connections being allowed to begin again.
Fairness and equity in the allocation of investment by the Council into our entire Martinborough ward. Ensuring that this matches the value of investments being made in Greytown and Featherston wards.
To ensure that the Pain Estate remains the jewel in Martinborough’s crown, to continue looking after the people of Martinborough into the future, and to honour this incredible taonga (gift) we have been given.
What do you think are the main impediments to progress in the South Wairarapa?
Martinborough Ward, which includes all our rural and coastal whānau, come from hard working Mana Whenua, Tangata Whenua and pioneers of farming and living in New Zealand. I think we need to be looking at how we all work together to get through these tough times, which is community, something the lower valley does better than anywhere else in the world.
What do you believe could be done to boost business and increase employment in the South Wairarapa?
Martinborough has a very active business association who I’m in total awe of! The recent inaugural Pour and Explore was a midwinter HIT and I really commend them for the work they all do. I fully support the Martinborough Business Association, and all businesses in our ward, to continue to keep up their amazing work.
