Outspoken on the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, Neil Kirton is passionate about protecting and restoring the region’s precious land, water and biodiversity. Neil has been a very effective voice for Napier and a part the team driving the council’s $250million flood recovery programme.

A major upgrade of Napier City’s flood protection infrastructure is essential in ensuring the city is no longer exposed to the devastation caused by the 2020 storm event and Cyclone Gabrielle, Neil says.

On council Neil has consistently focused attention on our coastal and marine environment. He has been a relentless advocate for protecting the Ahuriri Estuary, securing major funding of over $2.0 million for riparian planting. A justice of the peace and a member of parliament Neil, served as the Minister of Customs and Associate Minister of Health. He was responsible for introducing free healthcare for children under six. 

Neil is chair of the council’s Regional Transport committee. He is also a director on the council’s investment company HBRIC that has generated exceptional investment returns, reducing rates to Napier households by around $200 each year. As a regional councillor, HB Today described Neil as outspoken and constantly thinking about how the council is spending ratepayers’ money and its responsibility
to the public. Every councillor is accountable to the public and to protect to always put the public interest first and foremost, he says.