Election Tensions Rise as Candidates Clash in Upper Hutt

The political landscape in Upper Hutt is heating up as the election approaches, with candidates facing off and tensions flaring. With less than a week until voting begins on October 14, 2023, the atmosphere has become charged, particularly following an incident involving former mayoral candidate Graham Bloxham.

Bloxham was reportedly barred from entering a candidate meeting at the Blue Mountains community centre. Following the event, he claimed on his Wellington Live page that a 111 call was made after a “local election reporter” was “attacked.” However, attendees have contradicted Bloxham’s account, asserting that the atmosphere was calm and respectful. “There was no police, no chaos and certainly nothing worth investigating,” one participant stated, emphasizing that the only disruption stemmed from an individual who was asked to leave.

In light of the incident, Upper Hutt mayor Wayne Guppy has distanced himself from Bloxham, who has faced criticism for his handling of the situation. The electoral landscape is further complicated by an ongoing online dispute involving blogger Anna McMartin and Guppy’s rival, Peri Zee.

In a lighter turn of events, mayoral contender Andrew Little has taken to social media to boost his campaign, sharing images of his dog, Harry. This move follows a humorous competition with rival Diane Calvert, who previously showcased her cairn terrier. Little’s playful approach suggests a bid to connect with voters on a more personal level.

Meanwhile, councillor John Apanowicz has received accolades from colleagues during their farewell speeches. Teri O’Neill, who was elected in 2019 at just 21 years old, referred to Apanowicz as her “work dad” and commended his positive influence. Sarah Free echoed these sentiments, highlighting his thoughtful gestures, such as delivering cups of tea to fellow councillors.

However, political rivalry remains at the forefront. Ben McNulty publicly endorsed Apanowicz on social media, but his post notably excluded fellow councillor and northern ward candidate Tony Randle. Randle expressed his displeasure at being omitted, sharing his frustrations on Instagram and questioning why McNulty had to dig deep into past events for a supportive photo.

In another noteworthy moment, mayoral hopeful Alex Baker criticized ACT candidates, whom he blames for detrimental government decisions over the past three decades. Baker urged those opposed to ACT to cast special votes, declaring it his way of giving them “the big middle finger.” He argued that special votes are crucial for renters, a demographic he feels ACT does not support.

Finally, outgoing councillor Tim Brown delivered a poignant farewell speech, questioning the value of the approximately $350,000 he received in salary over the past three years. He criticized the current council’s “foolish level of confrontation and indifference” towards the community, while also expressing gratitude for the support he received during his wife Gael’s terminal illness, which ended with her passing earlier this year.

As the election draws near, the dynamics within Upper Hutt continue to evolve, showcasing a blend of political rivalry, personal connections, and community engagement.