Council hopeful a strong voice for rural sector

Tim Aitken, who is standing in Central Hawke's Bay's rural Aramoana/Ruahine Ward has a long-term vision for the Central Hawke's Bay District.

Tikokino farmer Tim Aitken is standing in the CHB District Council elections this year, keen to see more transparency and accountability in the district's local governance.

"We need better governance and improved communication from the council to ratepayers," he said.

"I would like to see some of the barriers removed to help business grow in Central Hawke's Bay, more economic development and investment in the future including the Ruataniwha Water Storage Scheme ... the dam, which I support.

"CHB needs a strong voice for the rural sector especially with issues such as roads and the environment. I know that is a regional council issue but there needs to be more understanding in Central Hawke's Bay."

Tim and wife Lucy Robertshawe have two children, Jim, 21 and Willa, 17. The family have farmed The Steyning in Makaroro Road since 1993.

"Currently we supply deer and Wagyu cattle to Firstlight Venison and Firstlight Wagyu.

"We also run some trading livestock, and integrated within the business is a horse breeding programme, using imported and local genetics from produce dressage horses that we train and compete on."

Mr Aitken said a range of industry positions, professional courses and qualifications have helped him gain a good understanding of governance and management roles, as well as develop strong skills in researching, developing, evaluating and implementing plans.

"I have a long-term vision for this district and have an ability to look at the big picture.

"I am able to work within various groups of people and am friendly and confident dealing with people at all levels."

He also had a strong sense of personal values, including integrity and a strong work ethic, a high level of autonomy, drive and energy, he added.

Mr Aitken and Ms Robertshawe were finalists in this year's East Coast Ballance Environmental Awards and won an award for land stewardship.

They won a Waitrose farming partnership award in 2015 and Marks & Spencer International Supplier of the Year in 2012.

Mr Aitken has held a number of positions within the deer industry including his current directorship of Firstlight Venison (NZ) Ltd (2006-current).

Closer to home, he was chairman of the Hawke's Bay branch of the Deer Farmers Association 1996-2004 and is on the Hawke's Bay Federated Farmers provincial committee.