Helen Lash

With over 30 years living in Westland, Helen considers herself a Westlander through and through.  With a background in agriculture, fishing, contracting and sports administration, Helen has also been fully connected with and immersed in the communities of South Westland and Hokitika.

Helen has always been a strong advocate for Westland and the wider West Coast region and with having served as Councillor & Deputy Mayor for the Southern Ward before becoming Mayor in 2022, she is now looking forward to the next triennium serving you as Mayor of Westland.

A down to earth, practical hard worker with an affiliation to the people of Westland and their communities is what keeps her grounded in this role.

Reilly Burden

Northern Ward

Reilly grew up in the Kowhitirangi Valley on a dairy farm, where he learned the values of hard work, community, and perseverance. In his day job, Reilly is a rural delivery contractor, giving him a strong connection with people and communities across the district. Passionate about local issues, he is also heavily involved in a number of community organisations, always striving to give back and support others. As a Westland District Councillor, Reilly brings a practical, down-to-earth perspective, focused on fairness, transparency, and ensuring that the voices of all residents rural and urban alike are heard and represented in local decision making.

Greg Maitland

Greg was born in Hokitika and spent much of his early life working in sawmills up and down the coast along with some years in forestry, with later years spent in the Joinery and building industries.

Many years were also spent carving Pounamu which continues as a hobby today.

He enjoys reading books on early New Zealand history, Global politics and social issues. Planting trees, surfcasting and cranking up the portable Mill

Following his son Tim and his mates in their endeavours in multi sports keeps him inspired and, on his toes, however doesn’t stop him falling off his bike from time to time.

Euan Mackenzie

Euan is a resident of the Northern Ward and Councillor for the Westland region. Originally from Scotland, Euan brings a wealth of knowledge with a degree in Economics and a Masters in Urban Real Estate Management and Development. He is passionate about fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the community's wellbeing on the Coast.

Carol Martin

Carol is a ‘West Coaster’ born and bred, growing up in Kowhitirangi and Kokatahi. She has now retired after 47 years of change with Westland/ASB bank. Carol was awarded a QSM in the New Year Honors 2021 for her service to the community and netball as a player, administrator, coach, and umpire. She had been a school trustee for Kaniere School and Westland High School for over 18 years and continues serving the community with Hokitika Lions Club.

Carol and husband Dean enjoy hosting domestic and international visitors to our ‘Cool Little Town’ at their home-based accommodation in Hokitika.

Joseph Walker

Joseph Walker is a Hokitika-based business owner and community advocate. As founder and manager of the Hokitika Sandwich Company, he brings experience in leadership, hospitality, and small business development. His focus on collaboration, communication, and service drives his work on the Westland District Council. Joseph is committed to supporting local enterprise, improving community involvement, and helping Westland grow in a balanced, future-focused way. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring the natural beauty of the Coast, playing sports, sharing good food with friends, and spending time with his young family

Steven Gillett

Steven grew up in Tauranga before moving to Christchurch to complete a BE (Electrical) degree. Later, he completed a full time MBA at Massey.
He worked as a design engineer for Tait Electronics then for Philips Electrical in Wellington. He returned to Tauranga and partnered in creating an award winning Mobile Communications business employing 23 staff. He then moved into business in Marine Electronics. In 2008, he moved to Hokitika taking part of that business south. He finally ended his work career in 2021 as an Operations Manager for a local company.
When not fulfilling council commitments, you’ll find Steven cooking up a storm in his kitchen and exploring the many cycle trails around NZ.

Janella Munns

Janella grew up in the Waikato on a dairy farm and relocated to the Westland District just over a year ago. Janella is energized by our community’s spirt, stunning landscapes, and potential for growth. Janella’s professional background spans hairdressing, establishing and selling a small business, farming and promoting local towns. She has also had the privilege of serving on a few community committees here in Westland, which has strengthened her ability to listen and understand the communities in South Westland. Janella enjoys gardening, exploring our beautiful beaches and walks with her family and contributing to farm life whenever she can.

Brian Manera

Brian Manera is a fourth-generation West Coaster and long-time resident of Hari Hari. With a background in agriculture and over 20 years as a local service station owner, Brian brings community insight and practical experience to his role. He is also a dedicated volunteer with Fire and Emergency New Zealand in the Hari Hari brigade and chairs the Hari Hari Community Association

Francois Tumahai

Paul Madgwick