The Ratepayer's Bar

07/11/2025

07/11/2025

Please give to Parkinson’s collectors today.

07/11/2025

Friday afternoon and I'm thinking of consistency.

01/11/2025

Only three of the Hastings-Havelock North councillors appear to have responded to the request for information which is disappointing. I personally think the focus should be on actions that benefit the majority and focus within the scope of core council responsibilities.

The region’s 22 new councillors will take their oaths in meetings across Hawke’s Bay.

27/10/2025

The HD council news from last week was the pohiri for the new councillors and mayor at Waipatu marae. Not a fashionista myself I was, however, disappointed to see the men in casual clothing except Kaumatua Jerry Hapuku. To be fair, I only saw the one formal photo and there may have been another suit hiding there somewhere. The front row was all female - like a school photo from the 70s. The women were frocked out to the max in metallic fabrics and also the trusty floral/abstract designs bar one. The HDC website reported that the Mayor said that while there were challenges ahead - families under financial pressure, housing affordability, ongoing Cyclone Gabrielle recovery, and the impact of central government reforms – there were also opportunities. “We can work smarter together to find solutions that allow our strong, diverse and resilient community to thrive.” I am looking forward to finding out what working smarter looks like, the details on the opportunities and the proposed solutions. Apart from that the President of Local Government NZ resigned which was very good news.

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27/10/2025

Welcome to The Ratepayer’s Bar — a down-to-earth local space for Hastings District residents to share views, ask questions, and discuss what’s happening in our community.

With a new mayor and councillors now serving their three-year term, this is where we keep the conversation flowing — about rates, roads, water, and everything in between.

Pull up a stool, keep it respectful, and have your say.

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13/10/2025

One last thanks to David Jungdesign. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting up my signs on that very cold night. Especially when one of my pre-booked fences was "comandeered" by another candidate. We found a solution. It was a curse at the time but hilarious on reflection. Also for contacting me, out of the blue yesterday, to offer your help to take them down. I don't know how I would have done it without you. Big IOU from me. You're a legend!

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12/10/2025

Thank you to the 4000 people who voted for me. Not enough to get over the line this time.

12/10/2025

Still no preliminary results.

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12/10/2025

And my favourite :)

12/10/2025

Just filling in time waiting for the preliminary mayoral votes. This was my most viewed video across facebook, instagram and tiktok. Over 1500 views. Maybe because it summed up current council priorities. I really have no idea.

11/10/2025

What an experience this has been. My most outstanding memories are of the people I met while door knocking. You shared a wide range of political views and personal concerns with genuine openness. While I haven’t remembered all your names, a few that come to mind are Mark L, Andrew, Jodie, and Barbara. I can still see people's faces and remember their stories — some of them very difficult.

Although I haven’t succeeded in securing a spot on council, you’ve restored my faith in humanity, and for that, I’m truly grateful.

I’d especially like to acknowledge and thank the following people:

My father, James McElwee – for his steady and much-needed support

Robert, Anthea, and Jody – my constant and enthusiastic cheerleaders

My workmates – Ray, Kia, Aroha R, Annie, Helen and so many others

Those who agreed to let me use their fences for my signs – including Graham, Alex, and Stephen

Jonathan – for his listening ear and valuable networks

My friends – Sandra, Anne, Moira, Virginia and Tony – for proofreading countless drafts and being there

Others who gave their time and energy – David J, Brett, Steve, Angela, Fred, Jenny, Te Kira, and David

And to Sign Central - for your brilliant pricing!

Thank you, team. It’s been a blast.

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