ACT Local has selected Andrew Pickford — a former international airline captain who now runs a family farm and local businesses — as its candidate for the Tamahere-Woodlands Ward of the Waikato District Council in this year’s local election.

After more than 25 years flying for major airlines, Andrew swapped the skies for the paddocks. These days, he co-manages a sheep and beef farm and helps run two local franchise stores. He’s also worked in project development, bringing practical experience in planning, logistics, and getting things done. He knows what it’s like to juggle work, business, and family — and he’s standing to bring that real-world perspective into council.

“Flying taught me how to plan ahead, stay calm under pressure, and take responsibility. Farming has shown me the daily challenges families face. And running a business reminds me every day how important it is to spend wisely and stay focused on the essentials. I’m standing with ACT to bring common sense and accountability back into local government — so ratepayers get real value, not more waste.” – Andrew Pickford

Earlier this year, ACT New Zealand announced it would be standing Common Sense Candidates for local government for the first time — after hearing from New Zealanders across the country who are sick of rising rates, ballooning budgets, and councils that ignore the basics while chasing ideological vanity projects.

When you vote ACT Local, you know what you're getting:

• Fixing the basics
• Cutting the waste
• Lower Rates
• Ending race-based politics
• Restoring accountability

ACT Local Government spokesperson Cameron Luxton says:

“ACT Local candidates are community-minded Kiwis who’ve had enough of wasteful councils treating ratepayers like ATMs. It’s time to take control on behalf of ratepayers — to restore accountability and deliver real value for money. ACT Local is about getting the basics right: maintaining roads, keeping streets clean, and respecting the people who pay the bills. Our candidates won’t divide people by race or get distracted by climate vanity projects. They’re here to serve, not lecture." – Cameron Luxton

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