Mitch Collins

Having lived with my family in Ōkāreka for 10 years and holidaying at Tarawera for 20, I am deeply committed to our lakes. Recently retiring as Chair of the Lake Ōkāreka Community Association, l have led successful project delivery, funding, operational management, and strengthened relationships with local government and mana whenua.

It is time for a fresh approach. The Community Board has had poor engagement and currently focuses too much on operational minutiae rather than strategic advocacy. My vision is to devolve funding directly to our communities and establish robust reporting lines to advance community issues. We must focus on long-term resilience, environmental sustainability, and genuine representation.

I propose an audit of the Board's effectiveness, aiming to transition its functions to direct community advocacy. Let’s move from long meetings to real action. I offer proven governance experience and a strong working professional background to drive this necessary evolution.