In this episode of Now That’s an Idea, councillor Rob Telfer about his first term on the Tairāwhiti council and why he’s standing again.

Rob’s idea: shifting council culture. Rob wants to move away from fear and box-ticking towards a council that communicates openly, manages risk wisely, and backs opportunities for growth.

He shares his perspective on:

-The role of irrigation projects in driving economic development

-Representing rural voices and keeping them at the decision-making table

-Making council more accessible and responsive to the community

Music by Lenny Lawns

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rob Telford

04:37 Understanding Council Dynamics

09:40 Culture Change in Local Government

14:57 Irrigation and Economic Growth

17:30 Closing Thoughts and Candidate Pitch

18:45 Pop Quiz

Keywords

Rob Telford, Tairawhiti, council, local government, economic development, irrigation, culture change, communication, decision making, community engagement