Featherston Ward by-election 2026

BALDWIN Joanna

My principal residence is within the Featherston Community Board area.

I’m a dedicated resident who chose Featherston as the place to raise my tamariki because of its strong community spirit and the way people look out for one another. Originally from Carterton, I spent over 20 years in Wellington gaining a mechanical trade and working in large corporate and Government roles before returning to Wairarapa.

Many will know me from my time as Manager of the Featherston Community Centre, where I supported local charities, events, outreach services, and projects that meet real community needs. I also volunteer widely and, until recently, served as Managing Editor of the Phoenix News, sharing local stories and amplifying community voices.

As a member of the disabled community with governance training and practical qualifications, I value manaakitanga, whakawhanaungatanga, and aroha, and am committed to an equitable, inclusive, accessible, and connected Featherston.

BLEAKLEY Claire

My principal residence is within the Featherston Community Board area.

Kia ora,

I have lived in Featherston for 30 years, and have previously served as a community board member. I have actively participated in local groups, always with a passion for our friendly, resilient community and environment.

I will actively work to – Find affordable local solutions and expertise to address infrastructure issues; Focus on protecting the environment around the Wairarapa Moana; Address the challenges facing ratepayers and work in their interest; Productively engage with our elected members; Retain our special South Wairarapa nature, no amalgamation; Stand up for a democratic and diverse views; Respect feedback as the needs of the Featherston community; Support our youth and maintain our many sporting groups; Ensure that I am always accountable, transparent in my decisions; Listen, consult and advocate the ideas and challenges that Featherston has to the council.

Ngā mihi,

Claire Bleakley

027 348 6731

COLTMAN Karen

My principal residence is within the Featherston Community Board area.

I have enjoyed being on the Rugby Club Committee and the Featherston Community Centre Board and would be pleased to step up again.

I am so grateful for the fantastic opportunities my children have enjoyed and am committed to supporting the next families coming through. I am running the Katipo Op Shop in the old Lang’s building and (after costs) we donate to Sustainable Wairarapa. To me it feels that protecting our environment is a community priority, from the township to the coast and river. We need to be careful about urban sprawl and environmental damage.

I am confident in my ability to understand proposed Council policy and planning options and to communicate back to you. We have plenty to celebrate here and I am keen to encourage these happenings via the Featherston Community Board. Thank you for the opportunity to formally support you.

DOBBIE Jessica

My principal residence is within the Featherston Community Board area.

My name is Jessica Dobbie. I am standing for the Featherston Community Board in the current by-elections. I have been a local for the past seven years and feel for the first time in my life that I have found somewhere to call home.

I love Featherston, it is a vibrant, warm and interesting place to live. I hope to be a voice for the library and the local environment as well as advocating for essential infrastructure improvements and maintenance for Featherston. I am currently home‑schooling my daughter. Before doing that I completed my Bachelor of Counselling and worked in youth mental health. If I am elected I hope to be able to help Featherston continue to be a great place to live.