Pivac to run for mayoralty

RICHARD WOODD richard.woodd@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki Thursday, 24 May 2007
TWO people have now stepped forward as contenders for the South Taranaki mayoralty, to be vacated by Mary Bourke in October.
Pihama co-op champion and environmentalist Steve Pivac confirmed yesterday he would be a starter.
Radio journalist Brian Vickery announced his intention to stand two weeks ago.
Miss Bourke says she has "given both Steve and Brian no holds barred accounts of what the mayoralty entails". She said it would be unfair to endorse any candidate at this stage, but she added this comment about Mr Pivac: "In my dealings with Steve over many years on a number of community-related projects, he has shown himself to have the ability to draw disparate groups together, earn the trust and respect of those he deals with, and write challenging and thought-provoking speeches and submissions."
Mr Pivac said he was also encouraged by National MP Shane Ardern, who told him: `You've been making a nuisance of yourself for sometime now in council affairs - why not get in boots and all?'
Mr Pivac describes himself as a contract fencer and farm forestry manager. He is chairman of Opunake High School, chairman of the Cold Creek Water Scheme and has recently helped start a wireless broadband Internet service in his area.
He does not see living 30 minutes from Hawera as a disadvantage to being a fulltime district mayor, nor his lack of experience in local government.
A number of other people rumoured to be interested, were contacted by the Taranaki Daily News yesterday and none said yes to the mayoralty.
The responses were: Andy Beccard, current councillor: "No, I'm still developing my new business, I don't have the time. But I want to stay on council, which I think is humming along very nicely."
Mike Powell, current councillor: "I'm still undecided but it's unlikely."
Harry Bayliss, farmer and Fonterra director: "No, it doesn't light me up at this stage."
Paul Rangiwahia, insurance and investment adviser, son of deputy mayor Jack Rangiwahia: "I was considering it, but after having had a serious talk with the family, it's a no. However, either myself or my brother Simon will be standing for council."
Businesswoman Paula Barton: "No to the mayoralty, yes to a council nomination."
Jack Goodwin, unsuccessful contender in 1999: "I haven't finally decided."