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
Palmerston North votes for mayor Grant Smith and Māori wards
The Post — October 11, 2025Tararua elects a new mayor, Horowhenua, Rangitīkei and Palmerston North re-elect sitting mayors, Manawatū’s new mayor Michael Ford was unopposed.
Race briefing: Will Palmerston North grow up, or out?
The Spinoff — October 1, 2025In Aotearoa’s second biggest inland city, 43 people are running for 16 council positions, making for a competitive race. Water, road upgrades and consultants are on the agenda – and an STV election means every vote matters.
Plans for regional freight route need to speed up
The Post — August 29, 2025Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith fears road freight plan could miss the moment.
Marae project designs to weave people together
Manawatu Standard — August 14, 2025Quotes several councillors expressing support for Te Motu o Poutoa project, including Grant Smith, Vaughan Dennison, and Debi Marshall-Lobb
Council and chamber unite in favour of Māori ward
Manawatu Standard — August 7, 2024"Palmerston North’s Te Pūao Māori ward is here to stay for the 2025 city council elections. Mayor Grant Smith and 14 councillors voted unanimously in favour of retaining the ward on Wednesday. The vote was forced by a recent law change."
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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.