Environment Southland has announced the official results of the 2025 local elections, introducing a combination of new and returning councillors to represent communities throughout Murihiku Southland.

Elected members are:

• Hokonui constituency: David Rose
• Invercargill-Rakiura constituency: Eric Roy, Lyndal Ludlow, Maurice Rodway, Roger Hodson, Geoffrey Young, and Phil Morrison
• Fiordland constituency: Paul Evans (elected unopposed)
• Eastern-Dome constituency: Alastair Gibson and Jeremy McPhail (elected unopposed)
• Western constituency: Ewen Mathieson (elected unopposed)
• Southern constituency: Jon Pemberton (elected unopposed)

Environment Southland acting chief executive Rob Phillips congratulated the successful candidates and acknowledged everyone who put their hand up to stand.

“Standing for council takes real commitment and a strong desire to make a difference for your community,” he said.

“Councillors play a vital role in shaping the direction of environmental management and the work we do across Southland, and we’re looking forward to welcoming both new and returning members as they begin their work for the next three years.”

Rob Phillips also paid tribute to outgoing councillors Nicol Horrell, Robert Guyton, Neville Cook and Peter McDonald, who together have given over 50 years of service to Environment Southland.

“Nicol, Robert, Neville and Peter have each made an enormous contribution to this organisation and to the people of Murihiku Southland,” he said.

“Their collective experience and leadership have guided the Council through times of change and challenge. Their commitment and stewardship have left a lasting legacy.”

He also thanked everyone who had voted in the local elections.

Official election results were declared today, with the new Council to be sworn in and chair elected at the inaugural meeting later this month.