Councillor Gerald passing the torch in final term

This article has been written by Marlborough Girls' College Y12 Gateway student Belle Sweeney.

For many, a new unopposed three-year term on the Marlborough District Council would be a time to settle in, but for Gerald Hope, it’s the final chapter.

The long-serving councillor and former mayor has announced that this will be his last electoral term, paving the way for a new generation of leaders.

Gerald’s political journey began in 1995 with him realising “Kicking the door down doesn’t work. You have to be inside, making the decisions.” Now, after three decades of on-again, off-again service, he feels it’s time for new blood.

“It’s a generational thing - I’m in my 70s now, and as you get older, you have to accept that you need to be more effective with the time you have, and I want to use my experience to its fullest.”

“I want to see succession, fresh faces around the table,” he says. “I’ve had my chance to contribute to what Marlborough needs.”

For his final three years on Council, Gerald highlighted the importance of addressing climate change, particularly the effects of sea-level rising on Wairau-Awatere Ward, as well as the consenting process for Marlborough’s farming, forestry, and fishing - the “backbone of New Zealand’s economy”.

He sees the Blenheim CBD’s “heart and soul” at a crossroads with the Westwood area serving as the main shopping hub, applauds projects like the Wine and Food Experience as crucial for building the town’s new identity, and believes success comes from positive collaboration and a willingness to listen.

“The council is agnostic, very connected and not divided by politics - you come in here, whether you’re green, blue, red, or whatever shade of colour you choose to take, and sit around the table as a representative of your community making sure you do the best you possibly can.

“You’re there for three years. It’s just not riding the pony as it goes to market but loading the pack horse up and taking it on a long trek”.

For young people interested in politics or simply making an informed vote, Gerald’s advice is clear.

“Read the candidates’ profiles. Look for honesty and a genuine commitment to the community. Focus on the candidate, not the party. Will they represent the broad interests of the community? Are they approachable and willing to listen?

“Local government is a great place to start. If you want to get involved, get a solid understanding of history and have a reason to contribute to making your community better.”