Neil Volzke Secures Sixth Term as Stratford Mayor in Close Election

Neil Volzke has been elected as the mayor of Stratford for an unprecedented sixth term following a closely contested election. Preliminary results indicate that Volzke secured victory with a margin of just 219 votes over his opponent Jono Erwood. This win positions Volzke to potentially become New Zealand’s longest-serving current mayor, contingent upon the final vote count confirming the defeat of Upper Hutt mayor Wayne Guppy by Peri Zee.

Volzke expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “I’m looking forward to the challenge of the next three years. It will be a testing time for councils.” He acknowledged that the new council would likely include four or five newly elected members, which would present a steep learning curve for them.

Election Insights and Future Challenges

Preliminary results released on October 29, 2023, revealed that newcomer Josh Best placed third in the urban ward, while Jaimie Bertie finished in sixth. In the Māori ward, candidates David Chadwick, Karley Hemopo, and incumbent Hemi Haddon received 47, 42, and 34 votes respectively, indicating a competitive race. Katherine Sextus was elected unopposed to represent the rural ward.

Volzke noted the community’s decision to reject the retention of the Māori Ward beyond 2028 did not come as a surprise. “I personally supported it, but from the feedback I received during the campaign, the split was as I had anticipated,” he said. He emphasized the council’s responsibility over the next three years to engage proactively with the Māori community to ensure their voices are heard.

As the new council prepares for its first meeting in early November, Volzke highlighted the establishment of a new business unit for Local Water Done Well as a significant task ahead. Additionally, he stressed the importance of keeping rate increases minimal, especially as residents face rising living costs. “The feedback I received from the campaign indicates the community is really feeling the cost-of-living increases at the moment,” he remarked.

Jono Erwood, despite not winning the mayoralty, topped the councillor votes and expressed optimism regarding his performance. “I was definitely pleased with that. It was good giving people an option. Both of us love the community and we will do our utmost for it,” he stated.

The final vote count, including special votes, is expected to be released on November 3, 2023. As the newly elected council embarks on their term, they will face the dual challenges of governance and community engagement in a rapidly changing economic landscape.