In the interests of offering extra information to residents we will publish Soapbox posts – in the order they are received Matangilink will publish articles submitted to us from candidates for election to Waikato District Council.

Meet the Candidate – Chris Woolerton 

In my travels out and about in the newly established Tamahere Woodlands  General Ward, my sense of pride in the Waikato continues to grow; we have  great people and great places that we call home. 

I’m a dairy farmer, and the current councillor of the Hukanui Waerenga Ward.  Born and bred in Horsham Downs, happily married to Susan and we have  four well rounded children. We’re family focused, have led an active life in  Gordonton for 21 years. We’re very involved at Oaks Christian Centre and I  serve on the board at CYC Ngaruawahia. 

With the size and diversity in the new Ward following the review, there is a  need for consistent representation. I have built connections, relationships  and trust with my current ward, co-councillors and council staff, these take  time. 

I have a proven track record for bringing strong sound participation in  chambers. I’ve learnt the inner workings of council and have experienced  first hand the council response during Covid times. I appreciate and would  like to acknowledge the great work the council staff do. 

I’m focused on Road Safety and have worked hard this past term at  addressing speed and safety measures especially around schools; through  our village centres and higher density areas. Rurally we need roads that  stand up to high volumes of traffic. We are in the early stages of 1B  revocation, and we are standing strong seeking a positive solution for  Telephone Road. 

The district is growing at a fast pace. As our communities grow, we must  customise centrally led legislation specific to our needs. Holding on to what  our communities value and build on their sense of identity. 

Increasing dialogue with council starts at the grassroots. I always listen,  hearing from you first , as the role of the councillor is one of enabler. This last  term, I have worked alongside my current community committees,  strengthening their voice and submissions. I look forward to working closely  with the committees in the Tamahere-Woodlands General ward. 

I bring a rural and country living connection, a direct approach with sensible  solutions. A strong integral voice – I ask for your vote. Let’s hit the ground  running!