Elected at large/New Plymouth District Council

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Dinnie Moeahu

“The most rewarding part of working in local government has been serving the community.”

Unwavering aroha for his community is what turned Dinnie Moeahu – a family man and former financier – to local politics.  

Dinnie's diverse life experiences, including his current pursuit of a PhD in Māori & Indigenous Leadership, shape his work in local government. In addition to being a councillor, he’s also very involved in Te Maruata National Māori Rōpū Whakahaere, and as a Te Tiriti o Waitangi facilitator for LGNZ’s Ākona programme. 

The most rewarding aspect of his work in local government has been serving the community, while the biggest surprise has been the scale of the duties and responsibilities of councils. He says that local government is essential because it is a cornerstone of our democracy, and shapes our participation, engagement, and accountability. 

According to Dinnie, there are three things that can make local government more successful and work better: enhancing fiscal autonomy, promoting participatory governance, and improving capacity building. He believes that anyone who loves their community enough to stand can make a good councillor, mayor, chair, community or local board member. 

Outside of work and studies, Dinnie enjoys spending time with his whānau and supporting his kids’ passions. He loves everything about the New Plymouth District and the Taranaki region, and says the region's beauty is matched by the community's generosity and kindness.