Hon Dr Nick Smith is running for the Nelson mayoralty in this year’s local elections. He talks to Nelson Magazine about why.
Why stand for mayor?
I love Nelson and worry our council has lost its way. I relish the challenge of putting my governance experience, knowledge of Nelson and energy to work to fix it. The part of the job I most enjoyed during my 30 years representing our community in Parliament was helping people. The role of mayor enables me to do this work with a more local focus.
What makes you so passionate about Nelson?
There is so much about Nelson to be proud of, our vibrant arts, caring community, dynamic, entrepreneurs, great climate and our fantastic network of parks. There is nowhere in New Zealand or the world that I would rather live.
What do you see as the biggest challenges for the Nelson City Council?
The first is rebuilding trust around the council table, with staff and with the community. It won’t be easy, but I have led successful change in big organisations before. The second big challenge for council is recognising the current economic pressures on households and businesses. Council needs to be more careful with its spending and be more business friendly.
What gets you excited about the job of mayor?
I like getting my head around how we make government work better. Big changes are in the wind for councils with Three Waters, the overhaul of planning laws and the Future of Local Government review. I want to put my experience to work to get a good outcome for the region.
Will you be standing as an independent?
Yes. I am very clear I want to be Nelson’s mayor and not a National mayor. I have also deliberately not joined any group of council candidates as I want to work collaboratively with whomever the community elects to council.
What are your values and beliefs?
I am a moderate who dislikes the extremes of left and right. I like reasoned, rational, democratic decision making. Entreprise, environment, and science are particularly important to me.
What is the most important thing for you?
Family. My wife Linley is my best friend and closest advisor. Our extended family are close and special. We all have tough times, and it is family that gets us through.
How will Nelson benefit from having you as mayor?
I will champion Nelson’s cause and have the track record of getting results. It’s about ensuring Nelson gets the public services and infrastructure investment we need. I have huge pride in Nelson’s businesses, sports teams and community organizations, and as mayor will be a strong advocate for their growth and success.
