Sam Ferguson, who is standing for the Greater Wellington Regional Council, says Councils have a key role to play in enabling and supporting local business, particularly in Kāpiti.
“We all benefit when we support our local businesses,” says Mr Ferguson. “They’re integral to our community, often owned and operated by locals, employing local people, and meeting the everyday needs of our residents.”
Mr Ferguson says he is particularly focused on seeing small and locally owned businesses thrive, especially those that are helping to tackle long-term challenges like waste minimisation, environmental protection, and climate resilience.
“When we spend our money with local businesses, more of that value stays here in our community. That’s why it’s so important that Councils, including Greater Wellington Regional Council, do what they can to support local businesses,” he says.
One area where change is possible is in procurement and tendering. “We need to improve the way Councils tender work, so it’s easier for local businesses, including iwi and hapū, to bid for work. That’s a tangible way we can keep more work, and more money, in our community.”
Mr Ferguson also sees public transport as playing a critical role in helping local businesses thrive.
“Reliable public transport means local employees, especially young people without a licence or vehicle, can get to work. That’s especially helpful for businesses needing staff during weekends and evenings. It’s a win-win, young people get job opportunities, and local employers fill labour gaps.”
Mr Ferguson who has served as chair of Horizons Regional Councils Public Transport committee says better public transport also means fewer cars on the road, freeing up space for tradespeople and service workers to move efficiently between jobs.
He also points to the role local business plays in tourism and the visitor economy.
“Kāpiti’s natural environment is a huge drawcard. People come here to experience our coast, our trails, and our green spaces. Supporting local businesses to build services and experiences around that, like cycle tourism, weekend getaways, or boutique food and accommodation all help to support our economy while reinforcing the things that make Kāpiti special.”
To hear directly from business owners, Mr Ferguson has been visiting and door-knocking local shops and service providers across Kāpiti. He says he welcomes feedback and can be contacted at [email protected]