DARK HORSE: Ohope businesswoman Karen Pocock is the surprise sixth contender for the Whakatane mayoralty. Photo Louis Klaassen D4097-09
COULD Karen Pocock be the “dark horse” in Whakatane’s mayoral race?
The Ohope businesswoman sees herself this way and, until last Friday, had kept the fact she was considering standing for the mayoralty very quiet.
The Ruby Dunes gift shop owner, and former Ohope Community Board member, is the surprise sixth contender for the leadership role and is also standing as a prospective councillor for the Whakatane-Ohope ward.
She joins incumbent mayor Tony Bonne, Mike van der Boom, Julie Jukes, Julian Reweti and Doug McLean, who all made their plans publicly known well before nominations closed.
“I just think by the number of nominations, it shows the people of our district want change,” Ms Pocock said. “And I think I offer fresh change and fresh vision, and I think I can make a good contribution for the Whakatane district … I’m the dark horse, but I think a female mayor could be a good thing.”
She admits to a moment of apprehension on Friday as she sent out a mass text to friends and posted news of her intentions on Facebook, then excitement took over.
“I’m excited – I’m really looking forward to it.
“I’ve always maintained an interest in local politics and what’s going on and I’m looking forward to something new to get involved in. This is what I want to do so I’m taking it very seriously.”
Of Ngati Awa descent, Ms Pocock was born and raised in Ohope and Whakatane but lived away from the area for many years. She returned 12 years ago to live at the beach and, except for a year spent travelling overseas on what her children called “mum’s midlife crisis” she has been in business.
She is no stranger to local government politics having served as a district councillor in Taupo and on the Ohope Community Board. She has also served on various committees and trusts, including being the first woman appointed to the King Country Rugby Sub-union. She is currently vice president of the Ohope Chartered Club and Ohope Tennis Club.
She said one of her key skills was pulling people together and working in partnership.
“I believe all councillors should have their own thoughts, and debates, but a good mayor should be able to pull those together so we have a good decision-making process.”
An experienced committee chairwoman, Ms Pocock considers herself a strong woman, not afraid to ask questions if she does not fully understand what needs to be done.
She is also pro-sustainable development and sees a bright future for the district.
“I’m completely for supporting new skills and development for the district as long as it doesn’t compromise the environment and also realises the importance of cultural aspects,” she said.
“I feel the district is fully poised to be a major tourism player in New Zealand … I really hope we would think first about sustainable tourism and only encourage development that is sustainable and suits our area.