Whanganui Rural Community Board

The Whanganui Rural Community Board represents our rural community and advocates for its needs. Established by statute, the board carries out functions and uses the powers delegated to it by Whanganui District Council.

They work with residents and stakeholders across the district to provide input on policies, projects, and services that affect rural areas.

Read the strategic plan - Rural Directions 2020-2030(PDF, 11MB)

Rural community board members 2025-2028

Whanganui Community Subdivision (two members)

David Wells (board chair)

My wife Julie and I live at Ngaturi in the Mangamahu district where we farm sheep, beef and kiwifruit on land my grandfather purchased on his return from WWI. 
Cr David Wells

I have now completed three terms on the Whanganui Rural Community Board, the last term as chair. 

I believe that there is greater potential for the board to advocate to the council and councillors on behalf of the rural community. I have a particular interest in emergency management, rural connectivity and environmental issues.

I look forward to serving the rural community as a member of the Whanganui Rural Community Board during this triennium


david.wells@whanganui.govt.nz
027 289 5112

Daryn Henare Te Uamairangi

Farming and work shaped my early years. I was raised by hardworking parents and schooled at Parikino and Rānana. 
Cr Daryn Henare Te Uamairangi
 
The rigors of farming and shepherding put me in good stead for a new challenge within NZDF. As a Tier 1 SF Operator, our work placed us amongst indigenous communities affected by war, famine and political unrest. The experience was truly humbling.
 
I am married to a beautiful wife. We have three adult children and ten mokopuna. My personal mantra is Who Dares Wins with an attitude of Less Hui, More Dui. These days I lead a team of rural community workers supported by awesome trustees. Visit our community page to know more about what I/we do. 
 
I am looking forward to serving the rural community on the Whanganui Rural Community Board.

Daryn.teuamairangi@whanganui.govt.nz 
021 396 763

Kai Iwi Community Subdivision (three members)

Brian Doughty

My commitment to the wider Whanganui district is both long and diverse.

Cr Brian Doughty

It ranges from spending many years involved with a number of organisations managing adverse events, including the floods which have hit the Whanganui district.

In this role I worked successfully with local, regional and central government as well as rural and urban organisations to assist people and businesses to recover and return their lives to normal.

As Provincial President of Federated Farmers and Dairy section chair, I have again worked with a wide range of local authorities and government agencies. This has given me a strong grasp and understanding of the role of governance and the responsibility that it carries.

I joined the Whanganui Rural Community Board in 2023. I look forward to serving the rural community once again during the 2025-2028 triennium.

brian.doughty@whanganui.govt.nz
027 485 7903

Jack Bullock

I’m a local, born and bred in Whanganui. I recently moved into the Kai Iwi Mowhanau Village with family. We are embracing the coastal way of living and loving it! 
Jack Bullock

I have over six years of governance experience after two terms on the Whanganui District Council. I have also held many community group roles. I am young and energetic. I want to ensure that we set our rural communities in good stead.

I am an experienced voice at the table and believe that by connecting with all walks of life we create meaningful relationships. These relationships give us the ability to understand service gaps and areas we need to enhance for the betterment of our community and district as a whole. I am practical, I think
big picture and want to see our rural communities thrive.

Quentin Handley

I am a semi-retired farmer and business owner, born and raised in the district. I have a keen interest in the needs of all local residents. Quentin Handley image

As a member of the Whanganui Rural Community Board, I will try to make it easier for ratepayers to use council services and amenities, and through community involvement ensure that council is aware of local needs. 

My focus is on rural roading and safety, especially the establishment of a cycle/walkway along Rapanui Road. This will provide safe access for locals and visitors alike. It will also showcase local attractions and rich Māori history in the area.

Coastal erosion is another issue that must be addressed sooner rather than later.

My wife Janice and I are involved with voluntary work for various community groups. I look forward engaging with many of you to hear your concerns and desires for the future.

quentin.handley@whanganui.govt.nz
027 443 7879

Kaitoke Community Subdivision (two members)

Bill Ashworth

I have lived most of my 72 years in the Fordell area. I am married to Rowena and we have four adult children who grew up in the village. We are also lucky to have six wonderful grandchildren with whom we share time and energy.

Bill Ashworth

I am a retired teacher and have served on the Whanganui Rural Community Board for 12 years.

I also belong to a sub-committee of that board, the Whanganui District Community Rural Halls Trust. I am proud of the Trust’s work to earthquake strengthen the Fordel Hall.

As chairman of the Whanganui Cook Islands Trust, I have a particular interest in my Cook Island heritage. My role is to work alongside the Cook Island community to advance all things relating to the Cook Islands.

I also look forward to helping and advocating for all things rural during this triennium.

bill.ashworth@whanganui.govt.nz
06 342 7704

Charlie Anderson

I flew helicopters in the Wanganui district for 25 years. I have vast knowledge of the area. Besides the normal agricultural work for local farmers, I have been heavily involved in Air Ambulance, SAR, fire, flood and storm events. 

Charlie Anderson

In the early days of rural Air Ambulance services, the farmers called us directly. An accident victim was tied to an external rack and we ran for the nearest hospital. We had no medical assistance. The authorities finally recognised our worth during the 1980’s.

I am proud to say that I was part of those pioneering days and now look in awe at the world class Helicopter Air Ambulance service we have in NZ today.

I finished my fourth term as a district councillor in 2025. I believe I have more to offer and look forward to serving the rural community as a member of the Whanganui Rural Community Board.

Rural Community Grant Fund

The Whanganui Rural Community Board offers support to smaller community-based projects in our rural areas.

The purpose of this seed funding is to enable small and nimble projects to get underway. These activities must show a clear community benefit. Grants of up to $1000 will be considered per project.

Apply here