I lead positive action for Nelson Whakatū on these key issues
A thriving local
economy
economy
I work for an innovative and resilient local economy, enhancing regional prosperity, and a leading approach to tackling climate change and transition to a low emissions circular economy.
Enhancing community
wellbeing
wellbeing
I believe in our diverse, inclusive, creative and actively-engaged community and prioritising initiatives to improve partnership, wellbeing and equitable intergenerational outcomes.
Care for the environment
I value Te Taiao, our natural world, and support restoring indigenous biodiversity, habitats, freshwater and marine environments, sustaining it for all life and future generations.
Thriving Local Economy
Working for inclusive regional prosperity
"I will continue to be an effective and positive voice on council, working to realise the vision of Nelson Whakatū as a community focused on improving equitable, inclusive and sustainable intergenerational outcomes for people and the planet." Rachel Sanson's experience enables her to be a connector between community, business and the council. She is an internationally successful businesswoman and entrepreneur, with 20 years' governance and management experience in the private, education, public and not-for-profit sectors. Rachel co-founded and ran a multi-million dollar youth-focused global education and leadership development company, employing 20 staff and with hundreds of partners across 16 countries. "I believe we need to be encouraging local businesses, innovation and creativity that will enable our communities and region to thrive, including embracing the opportunities presented by adapting and transitioning to a lower carbon economy." Experience and success in business has demonstrated that Rachel Sanson is fiscally responsible and will work to ensure public funds are managed and invested carefully. Rachel Sanson supports initiatives to revitalise the city centre such as Te Ara Ō Whakatū Spatial Plan, Create Nelson - the Arts & Creativity Strategy; inclusive inner-city redevelopment to increase affordable housing and enhance local vibrancy; emphasising the rich history, contribution and vision of ngā iwi o Te Tau Ihu o Te-Waka-a-Māui, and the unique multi-cultural fabric of our diverse communities today; improved active and public transport options across all suburbs. She welcomes innovation such as the Te Tauihu Strategy, an intergenerational plan to nurture the region's people, environment and economy. "I will continue to be an effective and positive voice on council, working to realise the vision of Nelson Whakatū as a community focused on improving equitable, inclusive and sustainable intergenerational outcomes for people and the planet." Rachel Sanson is an EHF Fellow (Edmund Hillary Fellowship), a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, a Resource Management Commissioner, a member of Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce, a signatory to the Nelson Tasman Climate Action Charter, and an Intergenerational Climate Ambassador. |
Community Wellbeing
Rachel Sanson champions community wellbeing
"Building community is important to me, and I will be a proactive voice for community on our council." "I am committed to a Nelson where all are welcome and encouraged to contribute and thrive; and where our communities – from Hira, Nelson, Victory and Tahunanui, to Stoke – are strong, connected, engaged and resilient." "It's important to me that we see our older people supported and involved; our young people valued and given a voice in guiding our future; our diverse, minority and marginalised people respected and engaged." "I have a deep concern that many in our community are struggling to make ends meet - Nelson's household income is lower than the national average, our housing costs and rates are among the highest in the country, and we have a serious housing shortage. The council must work with community, business and central government to address these issues." Rachel Sanson is from a family with deep roots in service, this is evident in her own involvement, with significant networks in a range of community groups – from grassroots to the boardroom. She is currently on the boards of Nayland College and the Ākina Foundation; has been a Red Cross refugee resettlement volunteer; an Age Connect volunteer; and involved with Books for Cambodia and the Himalayan Trust NZ. Over the years she's worked with Trade Aid, Greenpeace, Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA), and dozens of organisations overseas. "Building community is important to me, and I will be a proactive voice for community on our council." |
Care for our Environment
Rachel Sanson acts for our environment
Rachel Sanson demonstrates the leadership required to value and protect Nelson's unique landscape and ecology, and support our transition towards a lower carbon economy. "It is vital that we value and care for our rivers, ocean, and land, protecting and regenerating nature for biodiversity, recreation, and future generations." "There is broad acknowledgement of climate change and the environmental crisis - of our planetary boundaries and tipping points. With a 16 year old son this is of huge concern to me as it is to all parents and grandparents. Local government is at the frontline as we deal with these impacts and we need foresight and leadership to tackle these issues." Rachel Sanson defended New Zealand's nuclear-free position during the 1990s, taking action on a global stage, interrupting nuclear testing at Moruroa as part of the international peace flotilla. Her ability to take action demonstrates the leadership required to value and protect Nelson's unique landscape and ecology, and support our transition towards a lower carbon economy. Rachel has had an enduring sustainability focus since completing a Masters of Commerce thesis on Green Marketing. She co-founded a successful company working with youth on leadership, sustainability and global citizenship and which partnered with DOC, Forest & Bird, and Project Janszoon on extensive conservation initiatives in the top of the south. With her partner, Scott, they built an eco-home in Nelson. Rachel is also a keen organic gardener and hobby bee-keeper. As a family they spend most holidays in the outdoors, and are members of Nelson Mountain Bike Club. |
about Rachel
Growing up here with deep bonds in our community and environment has shaped my optimistic approach to life. Being an action woman, a collaborator, and solutions-oriented, I'm able to work across political divides, staying focused on what is best for Nelson.
As your councillor I will work hard to represent you and to collaborate with all councillors, council staff, business and community groups, iwi, local and central government bodies, so that we continue to move Nelson towards a sustainable, prosperous and people-centered city, where all people are welcome and are encouraged to contribute and thrive.
Late 2018 I sold my successful company, Pacific Discovery. This has enabled me to dedicate my skills and time to working for Nelson. I am fully committed to this role and to serving the people of Nelson. To prepare for the role of councillor and engage with current issues, I attended council meetings for a year prior to first running in 2019, and completed the week-long Institute of Directors CDC governance training.
I was the first in my family to head away to university where I completed a Master of Commerce degree. My 20s were spent working and living all over the world, gaining a valuable global perspective. I returned home to Nelson to put down my own roots, start a family, and be closer to parents and grandparents. The story of how I met my partner of 26 years, Scott Burnett, is a good one - ask me sometime! In the last two decades, we've founded, grown and sold an internationally successful company, and built a solar home in central Nelson where we live with our music-loving son, Kahu, who attends Nayland College, and our beach-loving dog, Coco.
I am part of a large and supportive family who are heavily involved in building community. My father (Roger Sanson) and step-father (Roger Wilson) have both been presidents of Nelson Rotary Clubs. My mother (Jennie Wilson) and sister (Emily Sanson) have both worked for the United Nations, and founded charities to support community development (Books for Cambodia, Purple Cake Day, Kenbe La Foundation). My partner (Scott Burnett) is a volunteer business mentor, works for Massey University and Forest & Bird, and in the last 15 years has undertaken 50 weeks of volunteer work for DOC in the region.
As your councillor I will work hard to represent you and to collaborate with all councillors, council staff, business and community groups, iwi, local and central government bodies, so that we continue to move Nelson towards a sustainable, prosperous and people-centered city, where all people are welcome and are encouraged to contribute and thrive.
Late 2018 I sold my successful company, Pacific Discovery. This has enabled me to dedicate my skills and time to working for Nelson. I am fully committed to this role and to serving the people of Nelson. To prepare for the role of councillor and engage with current issues, I attended council meetings for a year prior to first running in 2019, and completed the week-long Institute of Directors CDC governance training.
I was the first in my family to head away to university where I completed a Master of Commerce degree. My 20s were spent working and living all over the world, gaining a valuable global perspective. I returned home to Nelson to put down my own roots, start a family, and be closer to parents and grandparents. The story of how I met my partner of 26 years, Scott Burnett, is a good one - ask me sometime! In the last two decades, we've founded, grown and sold an internationally successful company, and built a solar home in central Nelson where we live with our music-loving son, Kahu, who attends Nayland College, and our beach-loving dog, Coco.
I am part of a large and supportive family who are heavily involved in building community. My father (Roger Sanson) and step-father (Roger Wilson) have both been presidents of Nelson Rotary Clubs. My mother (Jennie Wilson) and sister (Emily Sanson) have both worked for the United Nations, and founded charities to support community development (Books for Cambodia, Purple Cake Day, Kenbe La Foundation). My partner (Scott Burnett) is a volunteer business mentor, works for Massey University and Forest & Bird, and in the last 15 years has undertaken 50 weeks of volunteer work for DOC in the region.
"Being an action woman, a collaborator, and solutions-oriented, I'm able to work across political divides, staying focused on what is best for Nelson."
+ I am fully-committed to this role and work hard for our community.
+ Master of Commerce Degree
+ EHF Fellow (Edmund Hillary Fellowship)
+ Resource Management Commissioner (current)
+ Nayland College Board of Trustees (stepping down Sep 2022)
+ Ākina Foundation Board of Trustees
+ 20 years business governance experience
+ Attended council meetings for a year before running for Council in 2019, in preparation for this role.
Actively engaged:
+ Studying Te Reo Māori
+ Chartered Member, Institute of Directors
+ Member, Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce
+ Member, Sustainable Business Network
+ Member, National Council of Women NZ
+ Member, Nelson Mountain Bike Club
+ Contributor, Nelson Tasman Climate Forum
"I will work hard to represent you and to collaborate with all councillors, council staff, business and community groups, iwi, local and central government bodies, so that we continue to move Nelson towards a sustainable, prosperous and people-centred city, where all people are welcome and are encouraged to contribute and thrive."
+ I am fully-committed to this role and work hard for our community.
+ Master of Commerce Degree
+ EHF Fellow (Edmund Hillary Fellowship)
+ Resource Management Commissioner (current)
+ Nayland College Board of Trustees (stepping down Sep 2022)
+ Ākina Foundation Board of Trustees
+ 20 years business governance experience
+ Attended council meetings for a year before running for Council in 2019, in preparation for this role.
Actively engaged:
+ Studying Te Reo Māori
+ Chartered Member, Institute of Directors
+ Member, Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce
+ Member, Sustainable Business Network
+ Member, National Council of Women NZ
+ Member, Nelson Mountain Bike Club
+ Contributor, Nelson Tasman Climate Forum
"I will work hard to represent you and to collaborate with all councillors, council staff, business and community groups, iwi, local and central government bodies, so that we continue to move Nelson towards a sustainable, prosperous and people-centred city, where all people are welcome and are encouraged to contribute and thrive."
Endorsements
On hearing I was standing for Nelson City Council
"Fantastic! All the best!", Helen Clark ONZ
"Fantastic! All the best!", Helen Clark ONZ
Pic Picot, local legend and entrepreneur, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Alison McAlpine QSO - formerly a NCC councillor herself, among many other significant roles in serving our community locally and nationally - endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Roby Beaglehole, dentist and public health advocate, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Contemporary artist, Katie Pascoe, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Community hero, Kinda Douglas QSM, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Community leader, Gordon Oldfield, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Author and educator, Tania Norfolk, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Adventurer and environmentalist, Cindy Mosey, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Tanya Nock, Education Director at NCMA, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
Jane Merry-Fisher, Nelson teacher, endorses Rachel Sanson for Nelson City Council
++ Follow this link to view further video endorsements ++
"Rachel Sanson has my support 100% - she has for the last 24 years of our lives. She was born to do this."
"We need people like Rachel Sanson to steer our country's direction. She has a strong back, open front, brave heart."
"I have known Rachel Sanson most of her life. She has always displayed
leadership; has been an active tramper and climber; and for the past twenty years with her husband
managed a successful international tourism business. A mother, a fun person and intelligent, Rachel's youth, energy and history of achievement, would inject numerous talents into the Nelson
City Council."
leadership; has been an active tramper and climber; and for the past twenty years with her husband
managed a successful international tourism business. A mother, a fun person and intelligent, Rachel's youth, energy and history of achievement, would inject numerous talents into the Nelson
City Council."
"Rachel Sanson cares about Nelson's future. We need her clear thinking on the City Council."
"I am voting for Rachel Sanson because she is deeply committed to this community, and has the vision, skills and drive to really make a positive difference"
"Best of luck for your campaign. It would be wonderful - especially for Nelson - if you made it."
"I'm supporting Rachel Sanson from Wellington City and wish I could vote in my hometown. She's exactly the mix of economic smarts, sustainable thinking and leadership that Nelson needs to face the challenges of the future."
"I'm voting for Rachel Sanson because she is genuine and approachable - very important qualities for city councillor. She is passionate about Nelson and building the best future for our city, in particular in regards to the environment and climate change. Knowing Rachel personally I believe she will be fair and kind, and a solid voice of reason. I am excited to see her represent our city."
Get involved
To be elected to Nelson City Council, Rachel Sanson needs 8000+ votes.
Your support and involvement in reaching this goal is greatly appreciated.
You can help in the following ways...
Vote! Voting for local government is vitally important. Currently only around 50% of Nelsonians vote - this results in an unrepresentative council. Our council should be representative of our community, and this only happens if more people vote.
Talk to your family, friends, colleagues about the elections and make sure they vote too.
Follow Rachel Sanson on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.
Share posts, events and updates among your circle/community.
Come along to an event to support Rachel.
Get in touch if you'd like to meet Rachel - she is keen to hear your concerns about, and vision for, a better Nelson.
Rachel is happy to come along to your work place, community group or event and meet you. Get in touch if you'd like her to come along.
Finally, if you'd like to help out in some other way with her campaign, please get in touch.
Vote Rachel Sanson : Positive Action for Nelson!
Your support and involvement in reaching this goal is greatly appreciated.
You can help in the following ways...
Vote! Voting for local government is vitally important. Currently only around 50% of Nelsonians vote - this results in an unrepresentative council. Our council should be representative of our community, and this only happens if more people vote.
Talk to your family, friends, colleagues about the elections and make sure they vote too.
Follow Rachel Sanson on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.
Share posts, events and updates among your circle/community.
Come along to an event to support Rachel.
Get in touch if you'd like to meet Rachel - she is keen to hear your concerns about, and vision for, a better Nelson.
Rachel is happy to come along to your work place, community group or event and meet you. Get in touch if you'd like her to come along.
Finally, if you'd like to help out in some other way with her campaign, please get in touch.
Vote Rachel Sanson : Positive Action for Nelson!
Voting Information
Your vote is needed to shape the future of Nelson Whakatū and New Zealand. All the information you need to enroll to vote in the 2022 local government elections is on the Vote NZ website. Or phone 0800 36 76 56. Local voting information is here.
Key dates
If you've never enrolled to vote, do it today! Enroll online at Vote NZ. Do it before 12 August to be included in the general voting paper mail out.
If you've enrolled before, you'll get an enrollment update pack before 8 July.
8 July: If you haven't received your enrollment update pack, it means you're not enrolled to vote or your details are not up to date. To enrol or update your details, you'll need to fill in a new enrolment form. Enrol, check or update online. Or call Vote NZ and ask to be sent a form: 0800 36 76 56
12 August: If you enrol after 12 August, you won't get your voting papers sent to you in the mail. You'll have to request special voting papers from the Nelson City Council electoral officer:
Warwick Lampp, Nelson City Council
Tel 03 377 3530, nelsoncc@electionz.com
16-21 September: Voting documents posted out to all enrolled voters.
7 October: Last day to enrol to vote in the local elections
Saturday, 8 October: Voting closes at midday
Key dates
If you've never enrolled to vote, do it today! Enroll online at Vote NZ. Do it before 12 August to be included in the general voting paper mail out.
If you've enrolled before, you'll get an enrollment update pack before 8 July.
8 July: If you haven't received your enrollment update pack, it means you're not enrolled to vote or your details are not up to date. To enrol or update your details, you'll need to fill in a new enrolment form. Enrol, check or update online. Or call Vote NZ and ask to be sent a form: 0800 36 76 56
12 August: If you enrol after 12 August, you won't get your voting papers sent to you in the mail. You'll have to request special voting papers from the Nelson City Council electoral officer:
Warwick Lampp, Nelson City Council
Tel 03 377 3530, nelsoncc@electionz.com
16-21 September: Voting documents posted out to all enrolled voters.
7 October: Last day to enrol to vote in the local elections
Saturday, 8 October: Voting closes at midday
Get In Touch With Rachel Sanson
Feel free to contact me
Rachel Sanson
Positive Action for Nelson
Phone: 021 106 5043
E-mail: rsanson@gmail.com
For campaign updates and events, please follow me.
E-mail: rsanson@gmail.com
For campaign updates and events, please follow me.
Authorised by: Rachel Sanson