Politics
Sophie Barker Secures Dunedin Mayoralty in Close Race

Sophie Barker has claimed victory in the Dunedin mayoralty race, marking a significant shift in local leadership. In a text message sent to the Otago Daily Times at 22:00 on October 7, 2023, she simply stated, “Just heard. It’s me.” With a lead that extended during the preliminary count over her main rival, Andrew Simms, Barker expressed feelings of excitement and exhilaration about the opportunity that lies ahead.
Simms, who was initially leading the candidate pool for the Dunedin City Council, acknowledged his disappointment in not securing the mayoralty. Despite this, he described his top-polling position within the council as a result that left him “thrilled.” Former mayor Jules Radich, who served for one term, finished fourth in the race. Although he will not continue as mayor, he plans to remain on the city council.
Council Changes and New Faces
In the final results, Barker confirmed that deputy mayor Cherry Lucas will retain her position, stating, “I’ve known Cherry for a very, very long time and I trust her implicitly.” The elections brought about significant changes, with five incumbent councillors—Andrew Whiley, Carmen Houlahan, Bill Acklin, Jim O’Malley, and Kevin Gilbert—losing their seats.
Among the new faces in council is Benedict Ong, who emerged as a surprising addition. Green Party candidate Mickey Treadwell initially fell short in progress results but secured a council position in the final tally. These shifts reflect a broader trend across the region, where several local councils experienced significant turnover.
Regional Impacts and Other Elections
In other mayoral races within the region, Glyn Lewers lost the Queenstown Lakes mayoralty to John Glover, who aims to “restore trust and help communities rather than hinder them.” The South also saw a major reshuffling, with five incumbent councillors failing to retain their positions in the district council.
Jock Martin has been elected as the new mayor of the Clutha District, defeating outgoing deputy mayor Ken Payne. Martin takes over from long-serving mayor Bryan Cadogan, who did not seek re-election. In the Central Otago District, Mayor Tamah Alley achieved a landslide victory, while Ben Bell was re-elected as mayor of the Gore District, defeating businesswoman Nicky Davis.
Former deputy mayor of Waitaki District, Melanie Tavendale, has also been elected to succeed Gary Kircher, who chose not to run again. In Invercargill, Tom Campbell is poised to take over from Nobby Clark, while Rob Scott was re-elected as mayor of the Southland District despite challenges from former mayor Gary Tong.
The recent elections indicate a clear shift in voter sentiment, as many communities expressed a desire for change and renewal in local governance. As new leaders step into their roles, the impact of these results will be closely monitored in the months to come.
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