A Napier-based environmental specialist has announced she plans to run for Hawke's Bay Regional Council at this year's local body elections.
Nichola Nicholson , who has worked as an environmental planner and as a carbon and environmental consultant, says she wants to bring a younger, fresh approach to HBRC, as well as a female voice.
"I don't think the council currently is an accurate representation of the make-up of Hawke's Bay," Nicholson said.
"I'm running because I want to create a conversation around the environment and our region that reflects us all and that represents the interests and needs of Hawke's Bay as a whole.
"I bring a youth-adjacent voice and a female perspective that is lacking at the moment."