I am not affiliated with or a member of any political party.

My perspective has always been that political parties should have absolutely no involvement in local government affairs.

Councils in New Zealand only started having candidates officially endorsed by political parties relatively recently. This development marks a significant change in the way local government elections are conducted in the country. It was only nine years ago, beginning in 2016 that Palmerston North has had councillors from political parties.

A councillor should be elected solely based on their individual merit, policies, and personal views—not under the influence or control of any political party when making important decisions at the council table.

Councillors are elected directly by the people, serve as the true voice of the community, and should work diligently for the benefit and well-being of all the residents and their city, without exception.

That, to me, is democracy at its very finest.