ACT Local has selected Matthew Yovich — a qualified fitter-turner, youth coach, and community advocate — as its candidate for the Bream Bay Ward of the Whangārei District Council in this year’s local election.

Born and raised in Ruakākā, Yovich is a skilled tradesman and devoted father who spends his time balancing work, family life, and community service. He volunteers as a youth coach in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has a strong interest in local politics, driven by a desire to ensure the next generation inherits a region that works for everyone.

Matthew brings real-world experience, practical thinking, and a deep understanding of the pressures faced by working families in Northland.

“I’m standing to bring practical, community-focused leadership to our district. As a working parent and volunteer, I see the real impact of rising rates and poor infrastructure. I want better value from council spending, better services, and decisions that reflect the priorities of local families — not bureaucrats.” – Matthew Yovich

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
• Lower Rates
• Cutting the waste
• 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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