With each of its functions and the decisions it makes, council sets the stage for our community. I believe this role has never been more important than now. With its rapid growth, mobile population and huge tourist numbers, our district faces real challenges.

There are a host of infrastructural issues including transport, parking, sewerage, rubbish and recycling that need immediate attention.

We are also at a critical threshold where we stand to lose the small town familiarity that comes from knowing many of the people living here. This is part of the sense of community that makes us want to live and put down our roots in the Wakatipu.

Larger communities have a different dynamic and need different community structures. Tourism adds to the challenge of how to retain the core connections central to every successful community.

My vision for Wakatipu is for it to be home to a vibrant and flourishing community, where all ages and stages of life can contribute and be supported. For this to happen, "community interest" should always be uppermost in Council decision making.

My skills, background knowledge and personal passion for this community will help ensure that this is so. I welcome your support in the upcoming postal elections.

Queenstown Lakes District Council has three principal functions:

• To develop and apply our district plan, as part of sustainably managing our natural and physical resources under the Resource Management Act;
• To provide physical infrastructure for our community; and
• To encourage and celebrate vitality in our community.

Around one third of QLDC's annual budget goes to running the show – administering Council and the resource consent process.

Roading, sewerage, water supply and storm water consume over half the yearly spend.

The remainder goes mainly to community facilities like libraries, waterways and reserves.

Through this investment, council has a key role in shaping the character of our community. Will there be strip development or village centres? Will your kids be within reach of a playground? Will our people have a sense of belonging or of isolation? Will our roads be well maintained or pot-holed, free-flowing or gridlocked?