
New Voice.
Deep Roots.
Strong Future.
Leah Hawkins for Mayor… for the long term.
I was born here, I live here, and I’m raising my two children here. South Wairarapa is not just where I’m from — it’s my home, and my future. My family traces back seven generations in this district, and I care deeply about the people, places, and potential of our region.
As a business owner, entrepreneur, and someone who has delivered across industries, from rural services and project development to tourism and event management, I bring real-world experience and a practical, people-first approach to leadership.
But this election isn’t just about experience. It’s about vision
- My vision is to see our council rebuild trust through transparency, humility, and stronger community connection.
- My vision is to see our infrastructure properly planned and future-proofed — especially when it comes to water, roads, and resilience.
- My vision is to see our local businesses thrive, with council enabling growth instead of standing in the way.
- My vision is for our rural and urban communities to be equally heard, supported, and part of the decision-making process.
I believe South Wairarapa deserves bold, future focused leadership, not stuck in the past, but open to new ideas and better ways of doing things.
One of my strengths in this election is recognising that real change takes time. There is no quick fix , especially when it comes to the state of our infrastructure. But I’m in this for the long haul. I’m committed to seeing the job through. We cannot afford another one-term mayor. History shows how disruptive that is, and how little progress is made without consistent, stable leadership.
This campaign is about belief, in our people, in our place, and in what’s possible when we lead with vision and serve with integrity.
Let’s build something better, together.
Leadership starts with listening
“I’m not here to make decisions behind closed doors — I’m here to open them. Our community deserves honesty, inclusion, and a leader who believes real change starts with empowering every voice. This is our moment.”
Join Leah in Building a Brighter Tomorrow
Get involved today and help shape a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone.
- People Before Process
- Clean Up Council
- Empower Local Identity
- Transparent Spending
- Future-Proof Infrastructure
- Water Reform Done Right
- Stronger Together
- Backing Local Business
What others are saying
“Having served two terms as Mayor of Carterton, I understand the leadership, accountability, and long-term thinking required to guide a district through both opportunity and challenge. Leah Hawkins brings exactly the kind of energy and resolve local government needs right now.
What impresses me most is her grasp of governance — not just from a policy angle, but from a people-first perspective. She understands that strong leadership means listening, being decisive, and standing up for what’s right, even when it’s not easy. Leah is not interested in politics for politics’ sake. She’s focused on delivery — on cutting through red tape, supporting local business, fixing infrastructure, and restoring trust in council.
South Wairarapa would benefit greatly from Leah’s leadership. She has the backbone to lead and the humility to listen — a rare and valuable combination.”
John Booth.
Former Mayor of Carterton (2014–2019)
