The newly elected Taumarunui–Ohura Community Board (TOCB) for the 2025–2028 triennium was officially sworn in at a ceremony in the Taumarunui Council Chambers on Tuesday (18-11-25).

Elected Members

The TOCB members for the next three years are:

• Molly Jeffries – Chairperson
• Sophie Stockbridge – Deputy Chairperson
• Johnny Dryden
• Brian Portland
• Oriwia Wanakore
• Robyn Gram – Appointed Council Representative

Mayor Weston Kirton congratulated all members on their election, acknowledging the responsibility and privilege that comes with representing their communities.

Appointments to Outside Organisations

The Board confirmed the following appointments:

• Kakahi Recreation Reserve Committee – Oriwia Wanakore
• Ohura Memorial Hall Board – Sophie Stockbridge
• Otunui Hall Committee – Sophie Stockbridge
• Kirikau Hall Committee – Sophie Stockbridge
• Taumarunui High School & Community Trust – Johnny Dryden

Mayor Kirton Congratulates Board Members

Mayor Weston Kirton welcomed and congratulated all members on their election to the Board, saying he was confident they were each committed to doing their very best for the community.

He offered special congratulations to Molly Jeffries on her re-election as Chairperson following a highly successful three years, and to Sophie Stockbridge for again stepping into the Deputy Chairperson role. He also acknowledged Oriwia Wanakore’s continued service and experience at the table.

Mayor Kirton warmly welcomed new members Johnny Dryden and Brian Portland, noting the value of fresh perspectives and strong local representation they will bring to the table.

He also thanked Robyn Gram for once again taking up the important role of Council representative on the Board.

“This position is vital,” he said. “Robyn plays a key part in ensuring the Board’s requests, recommendations, and feedback are clearly communicated to Council.”

The Mayor reminded members that serving on a Community Board is excellent preparation for future roles in local government, including standing for Council or even the mayoralty.

He highlighted the Board’s responsibility for representing a diverse area across both Taumarunui and Ōhura, encompassing rural and urban communities, and encouraged members to keep the challenging financial climate facing Council and local residents front-of-mind in their decision-making.

Mayor Kirton closed by assuring members of his full support: “My door is always open. I’m here to help with any issue you may face.”

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