Tamah Alley Elected Central Otago Mayor
Central Otago has chosen its leader for the next three years, electing Tamah Alley as Mayor with a clear majority. Appointed by councillors last year following the resignation of former mayor Tim Cadogan, Alley now steps into her first elected term with 5,130 votes, well ahead of Charlie Sanders (1,886) and Mark Quinn (1,318).
Alley, Central Otago’s first female mayor, said the result reflects the community’s desire for leadership that is inclusive, transparent and values-driven.
"What a huge honour to have been awarded the mayoralty of Central Otago for the next three years. This isn't about one person; this is about the community choosing a forward direction for your council to lead you in."
"I will be a unifying Mayor, ensuring every voice is heard, from Bannockburn to Millers Flat to Ranfurly and everywhere in between. We are one team with one purpose - to serve with integrity, openness and respect."
A key priority for Alley’s term is delivering on her campaign promise of a 'People’s Council'. This includes council hui across the district, youth engagement initiatives, investing in resilience, building balanced income streams, citizens’ assemblies on key challenges, and plain-language summaries so residents can see how their input shapes decisions.
Alley also highlighted her focus on sustainability, long-term stewardship of the land, and the protection of the district’s unique landscapes and character. “We are kaitiaki - stewards of an extraordinary place. Sustainability will guide every decision, so future generations inherit more options, not fewer,” she said.
In her first 100 days, Alley plans to focus on setting the tone and pace for Council, ensuring transparency in decision-making and planning, and making sure the community feels represented by being present and engaged across the district, on farms, orchards, shops, trails, boardrooms, school halls and coffee shops.
“We’ll choose solutions that are smart for our economy, sustainable for our environment, and soulful for our way of life. Let’s stay connected and engaged as we shape our future together,” Alley said.
The election results are expected to be officially confirmed in the coming days.
The PRELIMINARY RESULTS are available HERE
