2025 Local Election Candidates
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Mayoralty
(1 Vacancy)
These are the mayoral candidates standing in the 2025 local elections. Candidates are listed alphabetically by their surname.
All profile statements and photos are provided by the candidates. Mayoral and Council candidates were also offered the opportunity to record a short video.
ELLIS, Russell

Candidate details
Phone: 027 438 0112
Email: russellellis.ashburton@gmail.com
Candidate Statement
My place of residence is in the Ashburton District.
Having spent 9 years as a District Councillor I am putting myself forward to be the Mayor of Ashburton. I am standing to ensure Stability, Sensibility and Unity. Our district is in a good place and as an experienced leader I want to maintain the momentum of the council team as we approach new challenges.
Throughout my time on council, I have always taken a common-sense approach to decision making. I have a consistent record of voting to get the greatest value for ratepayers and ensuring the best for our community. I am passionate about our district and the people that live here. Since I was first elected 12 years ago I have worked alongside a wide range of councillors from vastly different backgrounds.
Our council team will be undergoing change at this election and my skills building relationships and consensus will ensure that we hit the ground running.
MACKLE, Rob

Candidate Statement
My principal place of residence is in the Ashburton District Council area.
I bring strong leadership skills due to my life experiences in business including some difficult situations that I have faced over the years, requiring me to make tough decisions to help provide positive outcomes.
Being a practical thinker with a common sense approach, I’m not afraid to voice my opinion to achieve the best results. I was heavily involved in Rescue and Recovery during the Christchurch Earthquake and assisting during the Kaikoura Flood disaster. I have also attended multiple motor vehicle accidents.
Having a strong rural background which include High Country, Sheep, Beef, and Crop farming, I then settled into the Dairy industry building up an award winning farming business. I also have experience with Drain Laying, giving me a good understanding of our water services.
Given that significant investment has already been locked into large projects, we now need to prioritise reining in expenses, to minimise rate increases.
Candidate details
Phone: 027 456 6872
MCMILLAN, Liz

Candidate details
Phone: 021 708 013
Email: liz.mcmillan.nz@gmail.com
Candidate Statement
My principal place of residence is in the Ashburton District Council area. I am also standing for Western Ward.
With 18 years of experience in local government including as a Methven Community Board member, Councillor, and Deputy Mayor I am putting myself forward to stand for Mayor.
I have core values of respect, collaboration and authenticity. My positive, hardworking and community minded outlook has been shaped by my rural upbringing and understanding of different cultures.
My knowledge of governance, council processes, and leadership skills combined with my own business and management skills will help me lead a well-informed, effective council that prioritises spending where it is needed.
I have made well established community, rural and business connections over time and I can comfortably say I know this district well.
My plan is to continue to connect with key stakeholders so that more people are motivated to be involved in our decisions. I strive to be a Mayor for all people and champion and advocate for our district
RYAN, Jeff
Independent

Candidate details
Phone: 027 701 2006
Email: jcrmc250@outlook.com
Candidate Statement
My principal place of residence is in the Ashburton District Council area. I am also standing for Ashburton Ward.
Roads, Rivers, Rates, A Lake and a major Tourism Opportunity.
With rising costs, it’s time to be very prudent in our decision making and governance. The Government is making changes to reduce costs and compliance within Regional Governance and the RMA. I stand for capped rates.
Changing Weather Patterns are forcing us to address issues that could affect our lives, the main problem is river management.
Flooding is now a major concern. Gravel extraction is needed, and the stop banks strengthened. The Gravel recycled used to strengthen the base on many of our roads.
Lake Hood needs fresh clean water. The current inputs have contamination problems. Fresh water can be canalled above Allenton all the way to Lake Hood. This could also be used as a punting venture commuting people to and from the lake. It will act as a major tourism drawcard attracting locals, tourists, and visitors alike.