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Franklin’s newly elected local board members say they’re ready to bring fresh energy, community focus, and practical leadership to their roles.
The four new Franklin Local Board members are Merritt Watson, Hunter Hawker, Alix Bonnington, and Lesieli Oliver, each bringing strong local connections and a clear sense of purpose to their new positions.
Merritt Watson, representing the Pukekohe subdivision, said he’s proud to serve the community he grew up in.
The managing director and co-owner of Pik n Mix Lollies and long-time supporter of the Pukekohe Business Association, Watson said his business background has taught him the importance of efficiency and accountability.
“I’m a no-nonsense businessman,” he said.
“My focus is on outcomes and practical decision-making over politics or ego.”
He wants to ensure Franklin grows in a proactive, balanced way while maintaining the small-town, rural feel that defines it.
At Karioitahi Beach, Hunter Hawker brings a spirit of innovation and community service shaped by his work developing HighSide, New Zealand’s first coastal paragliding flight park.
His non-profit project aims to use flight to foster hope and connection, including offering tandem experiences for people with disabilities and flight therapy for those living with depression.
Hawker said being elected feels “super honouring” and aligns with his charitable work.
“Over time, I hope to win the trust of the wider community so that we can work together to do something amazing for the area.”
Alix Bonnington, who lives in Beachlands, is another new face on the board. Having spent the past 20 years on the Pohutukawa Coast with her partner and two sons, Bonnington has volunteered in a range of community roles and brings a strong communication background to her new position.
“My key aim is to strengthen communication channels between residents, the Board and
council,” she said.
She also wants to see continued investment in essential infrastructure; water, wastewater,
roads and parks – to support growth before people move in.
“By working collaboratively and listening to our community, we can create a positive future
for everyone across Franklin.”
Lesieli Oliver, based in Pukekohe, joins the board as a community leader and business owner with a background spanning education, research, technology and politics.
The founder of Lālanga and creator of the Lālanga ToolBox – an innovative education resource empowering teachers, students and families, she also co-leads Auckland-based tech company NIUTech, providing managed IT services, cybersecurity and AI solutions for New Zealand businesses.
Oliver said she feels deeply honoured to have been elected.
“I’m humbled by the trust people have placed in me. This is a role I take with heart, purpose, and commitment to serving the people of Franklin.”
Having lived in Pukekohe for 15 years with her husband Dan and their four children, Oliver said her goal is to make Franklin “a safer, stronger, and more connected place for every generation.”
“I want to ensure our diverse voices are represented and that we invest wisely in infrastructure, services, and spaces that bring us together.”
Final results, Franklin Local Board
Pukekohe Subdivision (4)
Alan Cole (Team Franklin) 6,238
Andrew Kay (Team Franklin) 5,116
Merritt Watson (Team Franklin) 5,104
Lesieli Oliver (Team Franklin) 3,923
Andrea Leask (Independent) 3,377
Bas Watson 1,952
Wairoa Subdivision (3)
Amanda Hopkins (Team Franklin) 3,923
Malcolm Bell (Team Franklin) 3,787
Alix Bonnington (Team Franklin) 2,993
Dene Green (ACT Local) 2,418
Darron Gedge (Independent) 1,619
Nick Corlett (Independent) 1,132
Blake O’Reilly 870
Waiuku Subdivision (2)
Gary Homes (Working For Waiuku) 2,588
Hunter Hawker (Team Franklin) 1,169
Tremayne Thompson (Independent) 888
Thomas Vanderlaan 756
Ngaire Raumati (Independent) 599
Les Thomas (Independent) 580
Daymond Goulder-Horobin (Rock The Vote NZ) 251
