A new face will soon join Invercargill City Council, with Waihōpai Rūnaka officially appointing Mike Bain as its mana whenua representative for the triennium.
As Pou Manawhenua – Waihōpai, Mr Bain (pictured) will be appointed to the Water, Infrastructure and Growth, and Community and Regulatory committees. He will also have speaking rights at full Council meetings.
Mr Bain (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha) has experience across the motor trade, education, and legal sectors, and has also represented the rūnaka on a number of community-based komiti, including on the Te Unua Iwi Advisory Group.
“I am really pleased to be able to step forward and serve not only Waihōpai whānau, but the wider community, within the local government sector. This role allows me to make a positive contribution to our city – particularly in advocating for local issues in important kaupapa, such as water infrastructure and the potential realignment of governance structures within Murihiku,” he said.
He replaces Reverend Evelyn Cook, who stepped down from her role as Māngai – Waihōpai Rūnaka following local government elections in October last year.
“I consider it a privilege to follow on from Whaea Evelyn’s mahi, and hope to apply the same commitment to this role as she did. Building on her strong voice, I’m looking forward to continuing the proactive and supportive presence of Waihōpai at Council,” Mr Bain said.
Invercargill Mayor, Tom Campbell said elected members looked forward to welcoming Mr Bain to represent his rūnaka during the Council term ahead.
“We are extremely pleased to be able to continue our meaningful partnership with Waihōpai whānau, and look forward to working alongside Mike in his role,” he said.
“There are a significant number of issues, such as the nationwide reform of three waters services and changes to resource management throughout the motu, that will have a tangible impact on our community for years to come. It is critical that we engage with our entire community during this process, to ensure everybody’s perspectives are carefully considered.
“Invercargill and Bluff are also rich with exciting opportunities ahead in the near future, including the completion of Te Unua Museum of Southland, and our partnership with mana whenua representatives play a key role in ensuring our shared cultural and social histories are celebrated.”
Council Chief Executive, Michael Day said two mana whenua representative positions – one each from Te Rūnaka o Awarua and Waihōpai Rūnaka – were first established in 2021.
“The perspectives of our mana whenua representatives are valued within the decision-making process of Council, and offer Māori within our rohe an opportunity to ensure their voices are heard,” he said.
“We are committed to our partnership with mana whenua, and I know Mike’s voice will be respected by his new colleagues around the Council table.”
Mr Bain will be officially sworn in at tomorrow’s (24 March) Council meeting.
