New face in the Mayor’s office
Published on 18 January 2017
18 January 2017
Yarn bomber, student lobbyist, now Mayoral Aide...
Linsey Higgins joined the Whanganui District Council team on January 12 to work with Mayor Hamish McDouall.
Linsey will be managing the Mayor’s diary, co-ordinating Mayoral events, offering political advice and providing support with media queries.
Previously, she was the President of the New Zealand Union of Students' Associations where she represented tertiary students across New Zealand.
“Part of that role was to lobby the Government for better conditions for students, conducting research and supporting local members of the student union. I also worked directly with StudyLink on policies which were good for students.”
Before that, Linsey was the President of the Massey University Students’ Association. She undertook this role while she was studying for a Bachelor of Social Work and after she finished her study.
Originally Linsey is from Kaponga in Taranaki and is happy to be back near the part of the country where she grew up.
“I moved to Whanganui for a change of pace. My role came to an end, so working for the Whanganui District Council is a fantastic opportunity to look further afield. I saw this role and thought it was a great way to put my skills to use.
“I really enjoy the small-town community feel, which I missed while I was in Wellington. I am looking forward to contributing to the Whanganui community to make it a better place to be.”
She says she has found joining the Council team an easy transition.
“Staff are really friendly and people have made an effort to make me feel welcome.”
Linsey has already investigated joining a roller derby group and wants to continue yarn bombing, which is the act of prettying up public spaces with colourful knitting.
She was part of a yarn bombing group called, ‘Woolly Riot’, in Palmerston North.
“I also enjoy baking, tramping in the outdoors and a good cup of tea.”
Mayor Hamish McDouall says he is looking forward to working with Linsey.
“It’s great to have someone with Linsey’s experience and vitality moving to Whanganui. Not only will she play an important part in our Council and work with our community, but she has already started to get involved in local activities and to make the most of living here.”