Hastings has invested millions into improving our 3 waters infrastructure. We need to continue to make water a top priority.
The Havelock North Water crisis in 2016 was a catalyst for major water reform across New Zealand.
In Hastings we have made great progress with improving our water infrastructure spending over $100m in improving our water infrastructure. We are well ahead of other towns and cities both in Hawke's Bay and throughout NZ.
But there's more to do - storm and waste water and also how water is managed - the government is requiring reform through Local Water done well - and this will be a hot topic in 2025. Will council's amalgamate their water services or continue to go it alone and what will be the cost to rate payers?
What's the best delivery model that works for Hastings residents is a priority for me.
Access to water is also important and there's a lot to take in here as well. HBRC is reviewing how much water we all can use - whether that be an urban resident or a rural primary producer growing apples, wine or green grass for sheep and beef. Water storage has been a controversial topic for as long as I can remember and I fully support any water storage project that benefits the Heretaunga Plains and the many businesses and people that life in Hastings.
John Newland
I have known Damon Harvey for several working on marketing projects as a client that has engaged his company Attn! Marketing. At all times Damon has been innovative in his thinking and applying that thinking to solutions that have presented our company well to our industry. I have always thought Damon to be extremely responsive and thoughtful in his approach. .
Bronwyn Douglas - Manuka Farming NZ
I have known Damon Harvey for many years and upon returning to Hawke’s Bay with my family I sought a position on the board of Sport HB of which Damon is Chairman. In the 18 months I have been on the board I have found Damon to be an exceptional Chair. He doesn’t shy away from the difficult decisions or conversations that need to be had and makes sure that all points of view around the table are given an opportunity to be heard.
Damon has been instrumental in recruiting a youth voice for the board, something I see as vital across many areas of governance. Damon has a strong relationship with our very capable CEO and this makes being a member of the board chaired by him both stimulating and rewarding.
Andrew Castles - Sport HB board memberAndrew 'Butch' Castles
I have known Damon Harvey for over 15 years in his role as our Marketing agent for Cottages NZ.
In that time he has provided his skills and guidance to our business, including encouragement to enter the HB Chamber of Commerce Business awards that led our business to success in 2006 and 2007. His ability to listen and then convert our ideas into practice has been a commending attribute to the skills he has.
Damon has always been a supporter of new initiatives and ideas that is pertinent to the potential leader of our community. He is able to converse with all members of the community from business owners through to the Sporting Community and families of all walks in life.
I have seen Damon develop professionally in the various roles he undertakes with community interests such as Sport Hawkes Bay, Jarrod Cunningham Youth Sports Trust - etc outside of Council.
Within Council he leads the Economic Development portfolio where his experience with the business community is well recognized. Damon has the ability to extract the relevant information from people and then to provide the relevant solutions/ options to be considered when solving a problem.
I have no doubt that Damon has the skills and experience to be Mayor Hastings.
John Roil - Hastings business owner and former Hastings District councillor
John Roil - Hastings business owner