Waikato District Council’s new Mayor Aksel Bech and councillors were officially sworn in on Tuesday, 28 October, marking the start of a new three-year term. The focus for the 2025–2028 Council is clear — strengthening community voice, improving local decision-making, and keeping affordability front and centre.
Mayor Aksel described it as “an incredible honour” to serve as Mayor and to lead a Council that “puts communities first.”
“Empowering our communities and giving them a genuine voice at the table is the foundation for a future where every community thrives. That must be our way forward,” he said.
The new Council reflects the district’s diversity, with members from across towns, rural wards, and Māori constituencies bringing a mix of local knowledge and fresh ideas to the table.
Who’s Who in the New Council
Three new councillors have joined the team:
Grant Coombes (Newcastle–Ngāruawāhia)
Endine Dixon-Harris (Tai Raro Takiwā Māori Ward)
Fabio Rodrigues (Tuakau–Pōkeno)
They join returning councillors Peter Thomson (Awaroa–Maramarua), David Whyte (Huntly), Mike Keir and Crystal Beavis (Tamahere–Woodlands), Vern Reeve (Tuakau–Pōkeno), Marlene Raumati (Waerenga–Whitikahu), and Lisa Thomson (Whāingaroa).
Carolyn Eyre (Western Districts) and Tilly Turner (Tai Runga Takiwā Māori Ward) were re-elected unopposed.
Eugene Patterson (Newcastle–Ngāruawāhia) has been appointed Deputy Mayor.
Mayor Aksel added that affordability, transparency, and accountability would be key priorities:
“Local government is complex and change is difficult, but we’re up for the challenge — and the mahi begins today.”
The swearing-in ceremony was held in Ngāruawāhia, formally confirming the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and councillors for the 2025–2028 triennium.
The first official Council meeting for the new term will take place on Monday, 10 November.
📄 Full story via Waikato District Council: New Council sworn in with focus on community voice, local decision-making and affordability
