Stratford District Mayor Neil Volzke Seeks Re-Election

Current Stratford District Mayor Neil Volzke has announced he will be seeking another term at this year’s local government elections.

“Stratford is one of the smaller councils in New Zealand and I believe we punch well above our weight when it comes to performance, but we need to continue to grow.

Overall the District has good infrastructure and the sporting and recreational facilities are way ahead of those in many small towns. But there will be plenty to do in the coming three years with a number of exciting projects currently underway, such as the residential subdivision and the new swimming pool. It would be great to be involved and take an active part in these and other projects” says Neil.

Neil stood uncontested in the 2016 election, but says he doesn't think that will be the case this time.

"I fully expect the mayoral role to be contested this time. It is a healthy part of any democratic process to have a contest for all positions on council. Voters should have a choice of candidates and should exercise their right to vote."
The workload and responsibility, says Neil, made the decision to stand something he put considerable thought into.

"It is a three-year commitment to what is an all-consuming job. The job varies greatly each day, something I find both challenging and rewarding. The community is very supportive, which helps a lot”

First elected to council in 2001, Neil became the Deputy Mayor in 2007 serving under Mayor John Edwards. Mr Edwards passed away while in office in late 2009, which resulted in a bi-election. Neil was successful in the bi-election and was re-elected in 2010, 2013 and 2016, having now served 10 years as District Mayor.
Neil also represents the Stratford District Council on the Taranaki Regional Council Land Transport Committee and the Taranaki Civil Defence Emergency Management Committee.
Neil is married to Debbie and resides in Stratford.

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