Hastings election debate Crowd names their favourites

A strong crowd turned out to last night's Hastings mayoral debate. Photo Duncan Brown

Many in the audience believed candidates Sandra Hazlehurst and Bayden Barber were the standouts in last night's debate.

Bharat Guha told Hawke's Bay Today she thoroughly enjoyed the debate.

"Everyone brought their own flavour with their background and expertise."

"It is very hard to pick anyone. I think leading was Sandra as she had experience on her side. The other one is Bayden and I relate it to his vision and if mayor, how he would like to see it implemented," Mr Guha said.

He did not discount Waitawhara Tupaea's efforts.

"For a young man at 19, I salute him for being in that position, although he does not want to be mayor."

Although Ron Wilkins was still undecided.

"I think it's between either Sandra and Bayden; both came across with valuable things."

Marie Dunningham believed "Waitawhara won the debate in terms of speaking, but he didn't win the argument."

"I can't decide between Sandra, Simon and Bayden. Not one was outstanding," Ms Dunningham said.

A Hastings local, who did not wished to be named, was also in agreement.

"Either Sandra or Simon. They spoke clearly and had good background knowledge. They were also reflective of what has happened in the past.

He said he would wait until the day to make up his mind on who to vote for, but thought "Hastings was in good hands."

Another woman, who did not want her name published, believed Stuart Perry was the right man for the job, despite no one standing out for her.

Another in attendance, Darren Davies, said the candidates all "did a good job, but Stuart particularly had a good business approach."

Jan Chisum said there was "a lot" to think about. "I am pleased I came. No one outshone anyone - maybe in promises they did."