Grant Smith
Official Candidate Biography
Kia ora. I'm Grant Smith, seeking your support for another term as Mayor of Palmerston North. Born and raised here, I bring strong local knowledge, proven leadership and deep commitment to our community.
Since becoming Mayor in 2015, I've led a progressive and inclusive Council. Together we've advanced major projects like the CET Arena redevelopment, Te Utanganui Central NZ distribution hub, the City Centre transformation and key infrastructure investments in transport, fresh water & waste water, housing and sustainability.
As our city grows, I'm focused on keeping Palmerston North vibrant, resilient and connected - delivering strong services, keeping rates fair and advocating for our city and people amid Government reforms.
With a background in business and community service I believe in practical solutions, not politics. My priorities are economic growth, efficient infrastructure, better housing, environmental sustainability and protecting Palmerston North's unique spirit.
Let's keep Palmerston North moving forward - together!
Connect with Grant Smith
Grant Smith’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 — 2 elected
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Final Elected
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MayorPalmerston North City CouncilFinal ElectedVote share • 79.0%16,774 votes
Offices held
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MayorPalmerston North City CouncilFeb 2015 – present
In the News
Shingles crashes mayor Grant Smith’s party
The Post — December 6, 2025Too young for free vaccination against shingles, Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith has been laid low by the post-chickenpox illness.
Rates cap no surprise, but will be a struggle
The Post — December 1, 2025Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith said councils were already working to trim future budgets.
Rangitāne and city council relationship takes a hit
The Post — November 13, 2025Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith and Rangitāne leaders promise to heal their relationship.
Palmerston North’s deputy mayor is Debi Marshall-Lobb
The Post — November 6, 2025Palmerston North’s recently-elected city councillors have been sworn in and have endorsed mayor Grant Smith’s choice of deputy.
Palmerston North keeps the cookers out!
No Right Turn — October 13, 2025Local body election results were announced on Saturday, and it seems that Palmerston North has kept the cookers out!
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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.