1. What is your plan to reduce the risk of and prepare Tasman for worsening weather events?
Flood protection is more than river management – we must look upstream to address the root causes. Clear-fell forestry, drained wetlands and intensive farming to river edges have removed the natural sponges from our waterways, making extreme floods up to 18 times more likely. We must reverse this trend, work with affected parties and focus on protecting high-asset areas, towns and villages, while building long-term resilience. More at www.timo4tasman.nz/rivers-and-flood-management.
2. What do you think good rural and urban planning looks like for Tasman?
Less sprawl and long term resilience in our rural areas. Good planning makes the most of existing infrastructure through well-designed urban intensification. We must manage risks in ways that are affordable and fair and set a bold, visual growth strategy. Spatial neighbourhood plans can enable quality townhouses and apartments in the right places – without endless red tape – while protecting rural character and productive land. More at http://www.timo4tasman.nz/key-actions-for-stronger-towns….
3. Given the tight Council budgets, how would you still support the most vulnerable in our community?
To support our most vulnerable, we must tackle the root causes of high living costs. That means addressing what drives our rates increases, encouraging smaller, affordable homes in central areas and ensuring that every new development includes social and affordable housing. Council should welcome tiny homes and explore Community Land Trusts and other models to improve long-term affordability.
4. What is your position on large impact projects like Sam’s Creek gold mine, Hope bypass or the Māpua fast-tracked housing development?
Council should back smaller, locally led projects that strengthen our local economy, not rely on mega projects. Too often, these projects allow private companies to take the profits while the community is left with the costs. We must protect Golden Bay’s aquifer and Te Waikoropupū Springs, preserve Māpua’s character, and ensure that our major transport investments – like the Hope bypass – deliver real, long-term traffic solutions. More at www.timo4tasman.nz/gold-mine-at-sams-creek.
5. Tasman voters will decide whether to keep the Māori ward in the upcoming referendum. What is your position, and why?
This is a binding referendum, so the decision is entirely in the hands of Tasman voters. The previous council voted in favour of establishing a Māori ward and this referendum vote will determine whether it remains. Whatever the outcome, I will work to ensure fair representation and strong relationships across our communities and I will respect the decision of voters. My focus will be on fostering respectful, effective governance that serves everyone in Tasman