Hello readers,

I’m Gary Tong, proudly calling Southland home since 1981.

Here I have raised my family, built lifelong friendships, and dedicated myself to public and volunteer service. Southland is in my heart, and it has been a privilege of my life to serve as your Southland District Council Mayor for nine years. I again seek your support in the 2025 election to continue that work.

My partner Sharon and I share 4 children and 7 grandchildren.

Leadership starts at home. I believe the values we teach and live by at home — honesty, respect, hard work, and compassion — are the same values to be carried into community life and the council chambers.

I know first-hand the challenges Southland families face - being safe, rising costs, personal pressures and the desire to give our children the same opportunities we had, if not more.

Southland has always been defined by the people and industry — resilient, practical, and connected. Over the years, I’ve worked with community leaders, volunteer groups, and community boards, and I’ve seen how much we achieve when we pull together. It’s no secret that a number of community groups are becoming diminished and there needs to be support and impetus to get the next generation involved in their future.

Southlanders must feel SAFE and supported, in our towns, at work, at school and at home, whether young and starting out or older and enjoying their retirement years. We cannot allow the pressures of anti-social behaviour take over or influence our next generation.

A healthy and progressive community means ensuring that essential services are maintained, that decisions are transparent and fair, that council works for you — not the other way around – you voted for them.

In this next three years, I will work to reinforce communication between council and your community. Together we will advocate for you where the investment in facilities, infrastructure, and local initiatives bring people together - a strong community is the foundation of a strong Southland.

Southland’s economy is built on hard work — e.g. farming, fishing, tourism, manufacturing, and small business. Together they not only sustain livelihoods but shape our identity. Family and community thrive when industry is strong.

The many challenges we face are real… your Mayor must provide steady leadership through change, ensuring Murihiku Southland remains future-focused while protecting jobs and opportunities for our people.

I will advocate for policies that support communities and business while encouraging innovation and most importantly removing unnecessary roadblocks.

Southland’s communities have, and always will be, the backbone of our prosperity and your council will work tirelessly alongside you to keep them strong.

I believe Southland deserves leadership that listens, leads, and lightens the load. My promise is to be approachable, practical, and grounded. I’ll keep working for families, strengthening communities, and supporting industry — because that’s what keeps Southland strong.

I believe Southland must always be a place where families thrive, not just survive. Together, we can ensure our region remains affordable, connected, and full of opportunity.

Tick Tong — 2025.

Authorised by Gary Tong, [email protected]

CLICK HERE for a full list of candidates in the Southland District Local Body Elections 2025