Our city deserves leadership that listens, acts, and delivers results.”
Meet Ian Pottinger — a proud Invercargill local, long-serving City Councillor, and passionate advocate for practical, people-first leadership.
Since 2010, I’ve had the privilege of representing our community on the Invercargill City Council. Over five terms, I’ve built a reputation for speaking up, asking tough questions, and standing firm on fiscal responsibility. I believe ratepayers deserve clear answers, efficient services, and real value for every dollar spent.
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Whether it’s advocating for rate payers or challenging the ballooning costs of major projects like the Te Unua Museum, I’ve always put Invercargill residents first.
My approach is simple: honest conversations, sound decision-making, and leadership that puts people before politics.
Now, I’m running for Mayor to help lead our city through the challenges ahead — with experience, integrity, and a commitment to making Invercargill stronger, smarter, and better connected.
Why I'm running
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Invercargill needs a common-sense approach to spending and infrastructure.
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Ratepayers deserve a Council that puts essentials before excess.
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It’s time to stop saying “why we can’t” and start asking “how can we help?
Leadership Principles
My leadership is guided by three core principles:
Transparency: Ratepayers deserve to know exactly where their money goes. I push for open council records and clear communication.
Accountability: Elected officials must be answerable to the people. I stand firm against bureaucracy and red tape that slows progress.
Pragmatism: I focus on practical, achievable solutions — not political posturing. This means prioritising essentials like infrastructure and community services over costly, controversial projects.
Vision for Invercargill
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If elected Mayor, my commitment is to build a city that works for everyone where:
Essential infrastructure is maintained and improved to support growth and safety.
The Council operates with integrity and transparency, restoring trust in local government.
Community resilience is strengthened, ensuring no part of Invercargill is left behind.
We create economic opportunities that benefit all residents, from workers to business owners.
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Together, we can create a stronger, smarter, and better-connected Invercargill.