Whangārei businessman Tim Robinson standing for Okara Ward

Tim Robinson is standing for election in Whangārei's Okara Ward in the October local body elections.

As a passionate Northlander Tim Robinson is standing for election to the Whangārei District Council as he sees council as the enabler of success in our district, for individuals, community organisations, and businesses.

Robinson, a businessman, is standing for election in the Okara Ward in October's local body elections.

He said he is an experienced trustee and company director, having spent more than 30 years in the corporate ICT sector while owning and operating small businesses.

''I've decided that the time is right for me to put my actions where my words have been, and make a difference for the region that I love, and the region that I want to be the place of choice for my children and grandchildren,'' he said.

He and wife Sandy own Bernina Northland, in Whangārei.

''I understand the challenges and roadblocks that small businesses face on a daily basis, and I want to get on the solution side of those challenges. As the slogan says, I love it here, and I want to make it even better. I bring proven governance experience, having been on the board of the Northland Chamber of Commerce where I have served for over 15 years including a term as president, providing effective governance for the chamber's strategic activities.

''I've also served as a past board chair at Whangārei Boys' High School where I oversaw greatly improved student achievement, consistently high rolls and the sign-off of a $50 million-plus school rebuilding project.''

If elected, he promises to work with my constituency to: Be fully engaged in the activities of council on behalf of the Okara ward and the wider community; build strong and positive relationships with stakeholders; bring objective and well-informed debate to important issues; focus on fair and equitable policy making and principles of good governance and make council business a priority.

If you are standing in the elections in Northland, or putting on a meet-the-candidates event, email details to elections@northernadvocate.co.nz.