Former councillor Conrad Stedman and former mayor Aaron Hawkins received the most support. Crs Steve Walker, Christine Garey and Mickey Treadwell endorsed Mr Hawkins. Crs Andrew Simms, Lee Vandervis and Russell Lund endorsed Mr Stedman. Cr Lund said Jo Galer was his first pick for council, followed by Mr Stedman, while Crs Walker and Garey also endorsed Richard Knights. Crs Lund and Vandervis also indicated they would not welcome a return to the council table by Mr Hawkins.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 10, 2026 00:10 UTC