SAM BENNETT (Chair)

Sam is a second-term District-Wide Councillor and has 27 years of firefighting and emergency management experience. As Chair of the New Plymouth District Council Age and Accessibility Working Party and Age Concern Taranaki, Sponsorship Manager for New Plymouth Operatic Society and CEO and Founder of Speaking Made Easy, Sam combines community leadership with a commitment to building a safer, more resilient Aotearoa New Zealand.

STEPHEN HOPKINSON (Deputy Chair)

Stephen is the CEO of Taranaki Veterinary Centre, leading it through major mergers and growth. Passionate about the dairy industry and rural community wellbeing, he plays an integral role in the changes and development within the sector. He has been a volunteer firefighter for over 32 years and served as President of the New Zealand Veterinary Association’s dairy cattle vets’ branch.

NEIL HOLDOM (Member)

Neil is serving his third term as Mayor of New Plymouth District Council. With a background in the energy sector and management consulting, Neil emphasises community involvement and community-driven development for intergenerational wellbeing, and has strong networks across Taranaki.

TRACY ABEL (Member)

Tracy is a professional coach and pilates studio owner, passionate about personal and organisational growth. She has served in governance roles for Victim Support, Flourish, and school boards, focusing on creating thriving, resilient communities.

BRENDON REI (Member)

Brendon is a Marae Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Ngā Iwi o Taranaki, with a background in the NZ Defence Force and Westpac Rescue Helicopters. A mentor to Māori youth and a cultural consultant, Brendon is a trusted connector across iwi, marae and business sectors.

DANIEL FLEMING (Member)

Daniel is a General Manager and co-owner of King and Queen Hotel Suites. As Chair of the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce and Board Member for New Zealand Chambers of Commerce, and previously Director at the Western Institute of Technology in Taranaki, he brings strong business, governance and community engagement experience.

ALISHA STONE (Member)

Alisha works in health promotion at Health NZ, previously leading safe community programmes in New Plymouth. She has extensive experience collaborating with working groups and boards and is passionate about driving community wellbeing and safety outcomes.

CALLUM WILLIAMSON (Member)

Callum is a General Manager of Conductive Education Taranaki, empowering children with neurological conditions. He has governance experience with New Plymouth Injury Safe and previously led the Community Partnerships Team at New Plymouth District Council, focusing on strategic planning and community resilience.