Candidates Clash Over Bus Services in Moeraki Constituency

The upcoming election for the Moeraki Constituency has intensified discussions around local bus services, as candidates Sophia Leon de la Barra and incumbent councillor Kevin Malcolm prepare to contest the single available seat. Both candidates have highlighted the need for improvements in public transportation, with a particular focus on enhancing connections to Dunedin.

Kevin Malcolm emphasized the historical neglect of the Moeraki constituency by the Otago Regional Council (ORC) regarding local and regional bus services. “ORC has historically given the Moeraki constituency the short end of the stick when it comes to both local and regional bus services,” he stated. However, he pointed out recent gains, including significant improvements to the Palmerston daily service. Malcolm expressed optimism about future developments, stating, “Our transport team is working hard on an option for our Oamaru-Dunedin connection. I’m really confident that this will happen soon.”

In addition to transportation, Malcolm addressed environmental initiatives. He mentioned that ORC has undertaken substantial efforts in river management to ensure the maintenance of river corridors and the protection of local ecosystems. He noted, “At almost every key policy development and implementation, under my insistence, ORC has used Waitaki residents as a key touchstone.” His commitment to community engagement is evident, as he aims to support local catchment groups and promote environmental initiatives.

Challenging Malcolm’s record, Sophia Leon de la Barra has positioned public transport as her top priority if elected. “We need public buses around town and to Dunedin,” she stated, referencing feedback from the Waitaki Senior Surveys conducted by Safer Waitaki in both 2017 and 2022. According to these surveys, local seniors expressed a pressing need for improved bus services, particularly for accessing specialist appointments at Dunedin Hospital. “It’s time to respect our elders by listening and giving them what they need,” she added.

Leon de la Barra also highlighted her governance experience with local charities, promising transparent and accountable decision-making. “There is no-one like a feisty ginger to get things done,” she asserted, aiming to energize her campaign with a strong commitment to community needs.

The electoral landscape is set to change in the 2025 Otago Regional Council elections, with adjustments to the number of councillors in Dunedin and Dunstan wards, alongside the introduction of the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system. This system allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference but does not require them to rank all candidates. Richard Saunders, the regional council’s chief executive, has urged voters to research candidates and their platforms thoroughly.

Voters can access candidate profiles and additional information about the election on the ORC website. As the election date approaches, the focus on public transport and community engagement continues to shape the dialogue in the Moeraki Constituency, reflecting broader concerns about accessibility and environmental stewardship in the region.