Leah Hawkins
What is the main reason you are standing for Council or the Community Board?
I believe South Wairarapa deserves strong, accountable, community-first leadership. I want to restore trust in Council, improve how we deliver essential services, and ensure every voice, urban and rural is heard in decision-making.
What previous experience have you had in managing within a business, government agency and/or in any governance role.?
My background is in running and growing businesses, managing teams, and overseeing budgets both in New Zealand and overseas. Entrepreneurial in our own businesses and in Rural Service roles. Bringing valuable experience to the table. I’ve delivered strategy, led change and been accountable for results in roles that demanded the same skills as good governance: financial oversight, risk management, clear communication and long-term planning.
What are the three most critical issues that you feel need to be addressed in the South Wairarapa?
Infrastructure limits that hold back housing, growth, and resilience, particularly water and roading.
Rates affordability and lack of transparency in spending.
Council culture, that needs stronger customer service, efficiency and community engagement.
What do you think are the main impediments to progress in the South Wairarapa?
While it’s important to reflect on the past, now is the time for a positive outlook
and a focus on what’s ahead. Some of our systems have operated in silos that slow progress and limit innovation. By adopting more pragmatic, lateral thinking and avoiding process for process’s sake, we can focus on timely, results-driven delivery. We need to introduce cross-functional ways of working, streamline systems, and look through a “how can we make it happen” lens. By working on partnership – Council, community and staff together – we can shift from being a barrier to being an enabler, ensuring priorities stay on track and outcomes are delivered efficiently and effectively.
What do you believe could be done to boost business and increase employment in the South Wairarapa?
We need to make South Wairarapa an easy place to do business. Streamline processes, remove unnecessary red tape and support local enterprise.
I’ll look for opportunities where we can enhance our relationship with local suppliers to drive local business.
By focusing on infrastructure, transparency, and economic partnerships, we can unlock growth, create employment, and build a stronger, more vibrant South Wairarapa.
