Thompson Hokianga, current Māori Ward Councillor for the Māui ki te Tonga constituency, has officially announced his intention to stand for re-election in the upcoming 2025 Hawke’s Bay Regional Council elections.

“Serving our people since 2022 has been an honour and a responsibility I carry with pride,” says Hokianga. “I’m standing again with the same passion, purpose, and commitment to mokopuna-focused leadership.”

During the past term, Hokianga has been a strong advocate for Māori communities, particularly during the region’s most challenging times, including Cyclone Gabrielle and the Wairoa flooding. His leadership helped ensure direct engagement with marae, iwi, and whānau, and they played a key role in the Council’s unanimous decision to support the continuation of Māori wards.

In addition to his Council work, Hokianga has served on the governance board of Ngā Taiwhenua o Heretaunga (Te Haaro), Deputy Chair of Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Inc,  the NZ Māori Council Executive, and as an Environmental Commissioner.

“The Māori Ward role requires the ability to move from marae warrior to boardroom battler,” says Thompson]. “I’m committed to making defining decisions that protect our whenua, our wai, and our whānau.”

Candidate nominations open on 4 July 2025, with voting papers delivered from 9 September. Election Day is 11 October 2025.