Ross Dunlop says his proven track record stands him in good stead to be elected for a third term as South Taranaki mayor.
Mr Dunlop, who has lived in the region all his life, said he was passionate about the region and wanted it to get attention from central government to further its economic development.
"I want to make sure South Taranaki gets its fair share of government resources, especially with healthcare. Our hospital is a key part of our community and it's vital funding continues so the community gets the health services it deserves."
He said major upgrades to the Hawera water supply meant the town came through recent droughts without needing water restrictions in place, and that he wanted to use the experience he had gained over his six years as mayor to further enhance the district.
"We've put a lot of effort into upgrading our sporting facilities [such as] the multisport facility at Waverley, I'm proud of how the Patea community got in behind the new pool which we achieved there, and of course the TSB Hub in Hawera has really proven its worth.
"The council has also worked closely with the Hawera Memorial Theatre Trust to upgrade its theatre and now it's looking really great."
Mr Dunlop said he wanted an urban development plan to revitalise town centres around the region, particularly Hawera's, but that it was important for the mayor to unite the council.
"It's important to me to have a cohesive council, rather than it being focused on one person - it's a lot more effective that way."