Arrested councillor to discuss future with mayor

Jack Bullock, in white shirt, holds a sign he later placed on the window of Wanganui retailer Stardust Creations to protest its sale of psychoactive substances. Fellow protester Philippa Baker-Hogan is on the left. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Wanganui mayor Annette Main is disappointed her youngest councillor was arrested for possessing cannabis but says he must have his day in court.

Ms Main said Jack Bullock contacted her on Friday night about his arrest earlier that day, although she said she had heard about it beforehand.

"I can't take any view of responsibility about his role as a councillor - that's up to Jack," Ms Main said. "It is disappointing that this is happening."

She said under the Local Government Act an elected member was disqualified from their office if they were convicted of an offence punishable by a term of imprisonment of two years or more, but the charge Bullock faced had a maximum penalty of three months' imprisonment and/or a $500 fine.

"It's up to Jack to have a talk to me about how he sees his future. This doesn't affect his legal ability to be a district councillor - it's entirely up to him."

District councillor Philippa Baker-Hogan, who is one of the organisers of protest action against the sale of "legal highs" in Wanganui, which Bullock has prominently supported, agreed the news was disappointing but was reluctant to comment on whether her council colleague would be welcome at future protests.

"This news is sad and very disappointing but takes nothing away from the harm legal highs do in this community - in fact, it highlights the very risks any drugs are for our youth, when a young elected member is a culprit.

"Cr Jack has made a serious mistake, but he has been a real champion for many youth in Wanganui, and I am confident he will take the humiliation and learnings and come through this stronger ... "

Councillor Michael Laws said the charge did not affect Bullock's elected role and was a relatively minor offence.

"It is a much lesser 'crime' than being caught drink-driving, or a minor assault or similar. It is likely to be a case that will be dealt with by diversion."