I see that there are two key components that make up the role of the Mayor.The first one is leadership of the governance section of council and like the captain of any team sets the strategy and standards for others to follow.The second is a partnership role and that is with Council’s Chief Executive Officer.This is the critical link that allows Governance and Management to work constructively together.From my many years co-managing a successful technology business I have developed those necessary leadership and partnership skills and combined with my proactive five terms on Council, I truly believe that I am the best prepared person to take on Invercargill’s Mayoral position.Council spending and its resulting rates impact is my highest priority and in simple terms, this requires a high level of “discipline”.Government legislation determines that Councils have to have a transparent ten year financial plan, which is formally reviewed every three years and to sit alongside that, a thirty year infrastructure plan.You would think with all this legislated financial clarity and compulsory public consultation that it should be a smooth ride.The ultimate financial decisions are made by councillors and they are a decision making group publicly elected on a popularity basis.This fact alone highlights the absolute need to have in place a Mayor with those necessary leadership and partnership skills to guide the best possible outcome.There is currently Government talk of introduced Council rates capping and it is easy to understand why this has come about.Lavish spending on building such monuments as “The flashest museum”, gives the Government good reason to intervene.However just prioritising key infrastructure does not immediately mean financial discipline. Council’s procurement strategy is what ultimately determines how the rate payer is affected.Council needs to be 100% sure it has secured the best pricing deal, just as a home owner would when they were getting a major job done.The Invercargill Central mall was a major achievement and was only possible through a partnership between private investors and Council.Council’s relationship with the Invercargill business community is critical. It can mean the difference between vibrancy and more local jobs or businesses relocating to find a more amicable environment.As Mayor I will make sure that Council is on the pulse of what is happening in the city. Identify what is hindering growth and what can help it.The next three years will be no armchair ride. Invercargill needs to always be on the front foot. For this to happen it needs a Mayor with all the leadership qualifications to ensure the absolute best possible result for every dollar spent.Ian Pottinger is that Mayor.Authorised by I.R.Pottinger, [email protected] HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025

Housing is the single biggest issue facing our community at every level of the community.It’s not just about addressing the needs of executives or professionals, whom most homes are built for. It’s also about the people on minimum wages who are struggling most.Councils must take a proactive approach, drawing lessons from Rotorua’s recent housing success, and apply those strategies here.Rates are another concern. Instead of pouring money into vanity projects, Invercargill council should focus on the basics.If we build more dwellings, more households will contribute through rates, which in turn will ease the burden on everyone. With greater supply, rents will stabilize, and costs of living can begin to come down.Road safety is another issue that’s been brushed aside for too long.Residents have been told, year after year, that improvements aren’t in the budget.Yet examples like Earn and Islington Streets prove that when there’s genuine willpower, solutions can be found.Communities shouldn’t have to wait for tragedy before action is taken.Equity in services is also critical.We can’t allow spending decisions to be determined by postcode.Every neighborhood deserves reliable access to essentials, from well-maintained public toilets, moment majority of them are north of Tay st and Otatara. Parks 22 + , 2 are South of Tay St.Elizabeth Park could easily be developed into an adventure hub for all ages. It wouldn’t require enormous spending, just a commitment to fairness and creativity.Example Walk ways, to basket & pickle ball courts.Finally, transparency must return to council.Closed-door meetings and concealed discussions about public submissions erode trust.People deserve accountability, even when it’s uncomfortable for leadership. An open council may face criticism, but it will also earn respect.The path forward is simple: prioritize housing, fairness, safety, and transparency.These aren’t luxuries.They’re the fundamentals of a council that truly serves its people.Authorised by Thomas Morton, [email protected] HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025

Dr. Seuss, Dr. Seuss,Listing:Dr. Seuss; Dr. Seuss,In that order:Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: MammaliaOrder: ArtiodactylaFamily: HippopotamidaeGenus: HippopotamusSpecies: H. amphibiusHippopotamus amphibiusWith cranium is a Hippo Thesis.Though, how can we Tell mind from brain?'Only' of restriction.'Just' is contextual from conversation.Just do itLimiting word; Execution word; Target word.If only Nike knew.Con is to dupe is to mislead is to betray.Contract, prefer Terms and Conditions, better yet Terms and Rules.Contrast should be said:Compare differences.Compare similarities.Com:Compassion.Comfort.Southern Comfort with L&P.Cool is an uncomfortable temperature.Wicked is most evil.Supreme is unable to be exceeded by Pizza Hut Super Supreme pizza.Unless:Supreme can not be exceeded by Pizza Hut.As 2 year old Human Ape mind fails to process negative 'not' or contraction 'can't'. Resulting in child being punished by parent, for parent repetitively instructing child to misbehave.Prefer:'Avoid'.Invercargill Library (Lexicon: Libraries is Libra Aries) new word:Inititiative is much initiative.Due to stutter of fast forward thinking.Lexicon is to parse the text.A promise is a Pro Miss.Amateurs are often better, as are unpaid hobbyists. And, Avoid 30kph 3pm Auckland rush hour traffic!And where would we be without etymology (word origin) & Sega Genesis.HomonymHomophoneHomographHomo is similar.Nym is word.Phone is sound.Graph is written.Which witch is which?Mathematics is math-e-matics is machine of math, is manipulate.Euler diagram before Venn, is your classic interpretation of numeracy becomes numbers after 9.Results may vary, as we are all different.Now you are Aware.Be Aware.Beware!Brain just does.Captain Cook, Captain Cook,Barbra StreisandAudio psychology:Beat is to drum, 120 kilometers of atmosphere maintains our fizz, or we go pop. Brain of structure uses mind of interpretation at (one) 1 PSi. Mars sounds different.Kiva Subaru.Authorised by Gordon McCrone, [email protected] HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025

Born and raised in Invercargill, Alex Crackett has spent the past decade serving the city with integrity and purpose.First elected to Council at just 25, she quickly established herself as a strong advocate for community voice, transparent decision-making and fiscally responsible leadership.Alex’s journey into local government began when she realised the Council of the time did not reflect the community she knew.With a young family of her own, she wanted to see leadership that truly represented Invercargill.Determined to make a difference, she immersed herself in every agenda and public meeting until she earned her place at the decision-making table - and she has never stopped showing up for her city.Over the years Alex has played a key role in leading multimillion-dollar projects that have reshaped Invercargill, from city centre revitalisation to major infrastructure improvements.Beyond the city, she has served in national governance roles through Local Government New Zealand, giving her a direct line to central government and the credibility to advocate for Southland’s needs.Her background also spans senior leadership in one of Southland’s top accounting firms, where she gained substantial business and financial management experience.Recognised nationally for her resilience and leadership, Alex brings the steady hand needed to balance progress with affordability.Deeply community-minded, she understands the pressures households face because her own family faces them too.Alex believes strong foundations in water, roads and waste services are essential, but equally believes in building a city that looks to the future - one that honours tradition while embracing innovation.Alex’s vision is clear: to put Invercargill back on the map for the right reasons, ensuring decisions made today set the city up for the next generation.Authorised by Alex Crackett, [email protected] HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025

I would be honoured to be your Mayor.I will have ratepayer’s needs front-and-centre.As Mayor, I will treat public money carefully, intentionally and with accountability.I am Managing Director of MediMax Ambulance Service and work in the Health Sector, caring for people as both an Intensive Care Paramedic and Emergency Care Nurse, and have a lifetime commitment to helping others.I offer Leadership with “Fresh Eyes”, and I work well under pressure.Families and businesses are under pressure, and they expect Council to take a responsible, disciplined approach to spending.I am the ONLY Mayoral Candidate that DOES NOT support putting Water Meters into Residential Houses.I speak from experience: Charging Volume Charges for water on top of Council’s set fee, will increase your: Water Account by $1,000 especially if you have 2 or more people in your household.Without hesitation, as your New Mayor I would be providing an Alternative Water Supply as priority for Invercargill.Currently, your sole water supply is from the River and in the event of an Earthquake of serve drought in the river there would be real problems for the community.In speaking to a Water Engineer, I am reliably informed that there is a good alternative water supply available between Invercargill and Bluff.Firstly, this would have a guaranteed an alternative water supply for the Community in Invercargill.Secondly effect, it would not place limits on current industrial businesses for expansionOr indeed it could attraction new businesses to set up in Invercargill with the additional water supply and investment.The cost-benefit ratio would be strong in my view.I’m passionate about Invercargill, it’s people, economy and environment.I’m actively searching to buy a home in Invercargill.Elect Andrew Clark as your New Mayor for Invercargill.Authorised by: Andrew Clark 0274577575 Email: [email protected] HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025

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 ACTIONStevey’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 & VALUESAt 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 PoliticsStevey 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 4221CLICK HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025

I was born in Scotland but emigrated to New Zealand with my wife Jessie, as a young married couple, in 1981.A Chartered Engineer by profession I joined Tiwai Smelter on arrival in NZ, working initially as a pot operator, but progressing to become the smelter Chief Executive in 1999.While working for Rio Tinto for 28 years I had roles in NZ, Australia, Wales, Canada, Chile and Venezuela.My last role was in Montreal as Global Head of Technology before returning to live permanently in Invercargill in 2009.I then became Chairman of the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Science (GNS) , and Chairman of NZ’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and served on the Boards of commercial businesses including Port Otago and the Todd Corporation.My first work for local government was when the Mayoral Forum appointed me chair of the SoRDS group which developed Southland’s Regional Development Strategy.That strategy was adopted by all four of Southland’s Councils in 2016 and has been the base strategy for much of the development since then.Elected as a Councillor in 2022, I have been Deputy Mayor of Invercargill since then.I also had extended periods acting as Mayor when Nobby Clark took ill in 2024 and in 2025.As Deputy Mayor I have particular accountability for the Housing and the Climate Change portfolios.I am also Chairman of the ILT Indoor Stadium Trust.I am married to Jessie, and we have children and grandchildren living in Invercargill.I am passionate about seeing Invercargill continue to thrive, but know that we must fund new developments by achieving internal efficiencies within ICC, rather than through unaffordable rates increases.We need to hold every dollar hostage and make 80c do the work of that dollar.My campaign slogan below captures my vision of our future together:Let Invercargill Flourish.Authorised by Cath Campbell: [email protected] CLICK HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025

I am standing for Mayor because I believe Invercargill deserves experienced, steady leadership that truly delivers for our people.My decision to seek this role comes from a deep respect for our community and a determination to lead our city into a future defined by unity, opportunity, and sustainability.My journey has been shaped by real life experiences. From running my own hairdressing business, to serving in central government, stepping into governance and community leadership roles, I have built my career on resilience, service, and accountability.Each step has taught me the value of transparency, the importance of listening, and the need to make decisions that stand the test of time, not just the next election cycle.Owning and operating a small business gave me firsthand experience of what it takes to balance budgets, make tough calls, and build trust.Serving in Parliament strengthened my understanding of how government works, how to influence change, and how to represent people with integrity.My governance and community leadership roles have grounded me in the realities of decision making, the weight of accountability, and the responsibility leaders carry to act in the best interests of those they serve.These experiences have shaped the leadership I will bring to the mayoralty, clear-headed, fiscally disciplined, and people-focused.I know the frustration many feel when councils pursue vanity projects or short-term wins that leave ratepayers paying the price for decades.As Mayor, my focus will be disciplined and practical. I will prioritise investment in core infrastructure needs and essential services people rely on every day.I will reduce unnecessary consultant costs, demand efficiency across council operations, and return to a balanced budget.The museum project will remain on budget or face scaling back. Every dollar must be spent wisely,But leadership is also about vision. I want Invercargill to grow with confidence and purpose. My key priorities are clear:Strengthening the local economy by supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and attracting sustainable investment that create jobs and economic growth.Financial discipline by introducing no new non-essential projects for the next three years, and reprioritising or removing long-term plan projects where needed.Enhancing community services with affordable, accessible amenities, reliable public transport, an alternative water supply, safe water and sewerage, and community spaces that bring people together. Regional development by lobbying government for better connectivity, including exploring passenger rail through a public private partnership at minimal cost to ratepayers. Rebuilding public trust by leading culture change within Council, improving transparency, and ensuring genuine consultation. Inclusive governance by amplifying diverse voices and ensuring every resident feels represented.I have lived, worked, and raised my family here.I know Invercargill’s strengths, I understand its challenges, and I believe deeply in its heart.Our city deserves leadership that listens, consults, and works alongside the community to build a future that is vibrant, affordable, and sustainable.That is the kind of leadership I offer, and that is why I ask for your trust, and your support, to serve as your next Mayor.Authorised by Ria Bond www.votebond4mayor.comCLICK HERE for a full list of candidates in the Invercargill City Local Body Elections 2025