Waireka Collings first time runner announces Candidacy for Mayor and Māori Ward in Masterton: Transforming Through Partnership

Waireka Collings has officially launched her campaign for both Mayor of Masterton and the Māori Ward in the upcoming local elections, bringing a powerful vision of transformation through partnership, purpose, and people.

Running under the kaupapa Transforming Through Partnership, Collings is offering a fresh leadership style grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, lived bicultural experience, and deep whanaungatanga with the people of Whakaoriori.

This is her first time standing for local elections but she felt that the timing was right to go all the way.

“I’m standing for both Mayor and the Māori Ward because our council needs leadership that understands and reflects the dual worldviews of our district—te ao Māori and the Western world,” says Collings.

"Standing for the Māori ward alone with this years referrendum looming was not going to bring enough awareness to retain the Māori ward alone. My dual biculturalism and education and management background creates a strong foundation of leadership within these changing times and I believe that I have what it takes to lead our Masterton forward."

“This is about co-designing the Masterton of tomorrow, not just managing the present.”

At 42, Collings represents the median age of Masterton’s population. She was raised locally through the bilingual education system and is a proud whāngai of Wairarapa. Her campaign prioritises empowering council kaimahi, uplifting rangatahi, and strengthening the role of mana whenua in local decision-making.

Her nomination is supported by two highly respected Wairarapa leaders:

Former Masterton Mayor Lyn Patterson, a long-serving local government leader, and Mike Kawana, esteemed kaumātua and cultural leader for the region.

“I’m deeply honoured to have the backing of both Lyn and Matua Mike. Their support shows what genuine partnership looks like—across generations, cultures, and communities,” says Collings.

Her campaign signals a bold step toward inclusive governance that’s responsive to all people of Masterton.

“This is a chance to energise our town, build trust through connection, and ensure our rising generation can thrive in a Masterton built for them.”

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