Results for the 2026 MainPower Trust elections were announced late last week, with two new Trust members elected.
Incumbent Allan Berge was returned, and Chelsea Houghton and James Hoban were elected as new Trust members. Mr Hoban is a Waipara sheep and beef farmer and has extensive governance. Mrs Houghton is a community sector and social impact leader in Rangiora and sits on the Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust and Caritas New Zealand board.
MainPower Trust Chair Kevin Brookfield welcomed the two new Trustees and thanked Gary Walton for his service over the last six years.
“We had a record number of exceptional candidates for this election, so it’s not surprising there has been a change of personnel around the table. It was good to see interest for positions on the Trust and our two new trustees bring valuable perspectives.
“I would also like to recognise the impact Gary had during his time on the Trust. He was integral in keeping the Trust involved in the community and future-facing. We will miss his passion and energy.”
Mr Brookfield said while the number of candidates was a good indication of interest from the community, the low voter turnout this year was disappointing.
