
I'm Mike Pettit, and I'm proud to be standing as your Mayor.
Putting my hand up for this role wasn’t a decision I made lightly. It was a family decision, and I’m grateful for the support of my wife, Nic, and our whānau. I’m stepping forward because I believe Waipā can do better, and I’m ready to lead that change.
Based in Cambridge since 1998, I bring a deep understanding of our district’s values and challenges. I’m a father, husband, and advocate for grassroots leadership, and I’m committed to serving this community.
I’m a lifelong educator, community leader, and proud Waipā local. From my early days as a teacher and principal to my service on the Cambridge Community Board and Waipā District Council, I’ve always made it my goal to put people first.
A Mayor that leads differently
I’m someone who gets things done. I thrive on challenge, bring a balance of strategic foresight and practical know-how, and I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of real progress.
MY LEADERSHIP STYLE IS GROUNDED IN RELATIONSHIPS, RESULTS AND REALISM
I’m ready to:
Build relationships and value people
Be bold and focus on results
Bring people together and collaborate to get things done
Rethink how we fund major community projects
Deliver better outcomes for satellite towns
Partner with mana whenua to support the Māori economy
Ensure Waipā’s voice is strong in regional initiatives like Waikato Waters
I’m not afraid to challenge the status quo if it means getting the best outcome for Waipā.
Experience that matters
I’ve served Waipā for nearly three decades in various roles, including principal, community board chair, and district councillor. My leadership has always been grounded in service, collaboration, and results.
6 years
as a Waipā District Councillor
(elected in 2019, Cambridge Ward).
9 years
on the Cambridge Community Board, including 6 years as Chair
(2010–2019).
17 years
as principal of Cambridge Primary School, one of the district’s most respected schools.
30+ years
in leadership roles across education, governance, and community development.
Strong ties
to local businesses and community
organisations, with a focus on partnerships and innovation.
Active community member
involved in local sports, events, and volunteer initiatives.

Financial acumen
I understand the pressure on Waipā ratepayers.
I’m committed to:
Stopping unsustainable rate increases.
Exploring alternative funding streams (e.g. partnerships, trusts, philanthropic, commercial returns).
Zero-based budgeting, ensuring every dollar is justified.
Professional development for councillors in financial literacy and strategic planning.
I possess a high level of competency in budgeting, financial oversight, and resource allocation.

Strategic leadership
I’ll set a clear, long-term vision for Waipā.
This will reflect our community’s needs and aspirations.
I promise to lead with integrity, especially in times of challenge, emergencies or crises.
I’ll drive continuous improvement, with a focus on value and benefits to the community.
I make informed, timely, and ethical decisions.

Governance expertise
I have a solid grasp of council operations and policy-making.
I’ll advocate for smarter, more transparent decision-making that empowers the community.
Subcommittee chairs will be appointed based on their skills and expertise.

Accountability
Elected members are working for you – the community – so I will develop stronger accountability within the Council’s governance framework.
I will champion policies that drive fiscal responsibility.
I will prioritise tangible outcomes for Waipā residents.
At all times, making decisions in an open and transparent manner, in the best interests of Waipā.

Community engagement
Relationships are key.
My commitment is to build strong relationships with residents, iwi, businesses, and regional partners. This includes:
Listening first, then acting with purpose – authentic engagement!
Championing transparency and open communication.
I’m known for listening deeply, communicating clearly, and uniting diverse voices around shared goals.

Responsible stewardship of ratepayers' funds
A financially literate mayor ensures every dollar is spent wisely.
I understand you expect value for money, and so do I.
I’m committed to transparent, accountable budgeting that prioritises essential services and long-term sustainability.
I’ll identify opportunities and ideas for cost-effective infrastructure, community development, and innovation. without overburdening future generations with debt.
"As a Waipā mayoral candidate, Mike's committed to progress and transparency is inspiring. I fully support his campaign."
Resident

Email: 4waipa@mikepettit.co.nz
Authorised by Mike Pettit, Cambridge - 4waipa@mikepettit.co.nz