Once again the isolated communities of Wairoa and Gisborne have suffered the effects of extreme weather. And once again, their mayors are called to lead.
Wairoa and Gisborne should be very proud of their leaders. Craig Little and Rehette Stoltz have led their battered, bruised communities through successive weather events with immense dignity, strength and mana.
They have battled politicians and bureaucracy to rebuild the lives of their constituents, only to have to repeat the process. They deserve our admiration and respect.
In the recent King’s Birthday Honours, I expected recognition for both mayors. An acknowledgment of what they and their communities had been, and are, going through.
My expectation was unfounded.
Queenstown is a politically conservative playground for the wealthy. It’s a weekend destination for Auckland’s elite, and a retreat for overseas billionaires. Its average house price is $1,779,124. Ex-Queenstown Mayor Jim Boult received an ONZM for “services to local government, tourism and the community”.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon wasn’t able to visit Wairoa or Gisborne this Matariki weekend. He’s spending it in Queenstown.
Ian Findlay
