Stevey Chernishov is a visionary leader & community advocate dedicated to igniting transformation across Southern New Zealand.

Standing as a candidate for Mayor of Invercargill City Council & Councillor of Southland District Council, Stevey brings a unique blend of energy, innovation & grassroots commitment to every role he takes on. His leadership is grounded in a belief that real transformation begins with connection — when people feel empowered, engaged & inspired to take action together.

Born & raised in Invercargill with Southern family history dating back 165 years, Stevey understands both the strengths & challenges facing the region.

He is passionate about ensuring that decision-making stays close to home, where local voices, businesses & communities are given the authority they deserve.

He consistently calls for greater transparency, local management of assets & smarter financial planning that avoids unnecessary debt.

For Stevey, the future of Southland isn’t about repeating old patterns — it’s about reimagining possibilities & creating vibrant pathways forward.

A LEADER GROUNDED BY ACTION

Stevey’s career spans education, entrepreneurship & community development.

As a registered teacher, he empowers students with digital skills, creativity & confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

As an entrepreneur & company director, he has proven his ability to turn ideas into action, building solutions that serve both people & place. As a community creator, he champions resilience & innovation, always seeking ways to bring people together to shape their own destiny.

These experiences underpin his approach: hands-on, solutions-focused & infused with optimism.

Whether it’s tackling infrastructure challenges, advocating for local enterprise, or energising public spaces with cultural events, Stevey is known as an atmosphere shifter — someone who lights up the room & inspires momentum.

VISION & VALUES

At the heart of Stevey’s vision is a Southland that is 'local, enterprising & purposeful'.

He believes in investing wisely in infrastructure that attracts talent & opportunity, thinking as a business that is set up for growth - no dependance.

He supports social enterprises that put people & community first, fostering a local economy that uplifts everyone.

His values can be summed up in three pillars:

GROUNDED: celebrating local culture, trade & legacy.

FORWARD-THINKING: embracing innovation, creativity & enterprise.

COMMUNITY & GROWTH: building strong, united & meaningful connections across the South.

Stevey has a clear stance on Southland’s current challenges.

He is concerned about mounting regional debt & the dominance of monopoly contractors.

His powerful solution: keep decisions local, build & raise up Southland businesses & prioritise projects that deliver real value to the people.

Beyond Politics

Stevey is a connector, a motivator & an innovative Southlander.

He brings energy & positivity wherever he goes. His personal philosophy is as practical as it is joyful.

With Stevey Chernishov, Southern New Zealand gains not just a candidate, but a catalyst — a leader ready to inspire purpose, unlock innovation & walk boldly with the community into a brighter future.

Authorised by: Stevey Chernshov, 020 444 4221

CLICK HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025