Andrew Dowling was at the family farm in Ranfurly – the place where he grew up, and where his mother still lives – when the call came through confirming he’d won the Vincent Ward by-election.
He describes his initial response to the news as “wow”, closely followed by, “now the work begins.”
He decided to run after realising it was time to get off the fence and step forward. For Andrew, the role is about listening first and understanding what matters to people, then helping turn that into action.
In his full-time role as a vet with PGG Wrightson, Andrew is used to breaking down complex technical information so farmers can make practical decisions. He sees a clear parallel with council work; helping everyday people understand what Council is doing, why it matters, and what it means for them.
“It’s all about making the information accessible and available, and having clear and open communication," he says.
"People want to see an actionable plan, what will be focused on, and what they can watch for. I want to help the community understand what is going on and what is relevant for them.”
He’s not unfamiliar to being on committees and boards as current President of Mountain Bikers of Alexandra and a stint on the New Zealand Veterinary Association board, but this is his first council appointment. He’s the first to admit there’s a steep learning curve ahead, with plenty of late-night reading coming up.
“I know I’ve got a lot to learn, but I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and working with the other elected members for the long-term good of Central Otago, so people keep wanting to live and work here,” Andrew says.
He really enjoyed getting to know the other candidates during the election and acknowledges that with his success comes their loss. Over 3000 people cast a vote which is a strong turnout, especially so soon after October’s election.
Andrew lives in Alexandra with his wife. He celebrated the win with a glass of bubbles, shared with friends visiting from the UK. He even caught a glimpse of the lunar eclipse – a quiet reminder, he says, to pause and appreciate what we have.
“It’s about balance and liking what you do, otherwise what’s the point? We’re not here for a long time in the scheme of things, so it’s important to stop and smell the roses and appreciate what we have and what we can offer.”
Andrew will be sworn in at the Central Otago District Council meeting in Ranfurly on 25 March.
