Don Paterson portrait

Don Paterson

Currently serving: Te Ipu Wai Auraki General Ward, Rotorua Lakes Council
Party Saving Rotorua
Don Paterson’s Elections & Candidacies

Note: This database contains data from the 2023, 2020, 2017 and 2014 general elections, the 2025 local government election and is gradually being backfilled with other election data.

Contested 2 races — 1 elected 1 not elected

2025 NZ Local Government • October 11, 2025 Local
Offices held
  • Te Ipu Wai Auraki General Ward
    Rotorua Lakes Council
    Oct 2022 – present
In the News
Race briefing: A fractious, personal fight over Rotorua’s future
The Spinoff — October 3, 2025

One of the country’s best-known young mayors is going up against an uber-conservative councillor who she’s publicly accused of disrespectful conduct. Why is Rotorua the best place in the world?

From golf to Hollywood: A plan to reinvent Rotorua
Stuff — September 25, 2025

Mayoral candidate Don Paterson wants Rotorua Lakes Council to start thinking outside the box when it comes to tourism, development and revenue.

Rotorua mayoral election: Don Paterson says city must think outside the box
NZ Herald — September 25, 2025

Don Paterson says Rotorua must think bigger to move forward.

Haehaetu Barrett’s exit from Rotorua mayoral campaign raises election integrity questions
NZ Herald — September 13, 2025

With her name still on the ballot, Don Paterson worries it could all end up in court.

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This database currently contains data from the 2025 local government eleciton, and general elections in 2023, 2020, 2017 and 2014. It is being backfilled with older data. Please get in touch if you want to help.