Issue 238
Local News for Local Communities
Wednesday 22nd October 2025
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Hororata Highland Games Chieftain Page 4
Gardening and Landscaping Feature Pages 7 –9
New Council Members Pages 13
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A NEW CHAPTER FOR SELWYN Lydia Gliddon says she feels “incredibly honoured and humbled” to be elected as Selwyn’s new Mayor — and she’s clear about the message she believes voters have sent: they want open, accountable leadership and a Council that listens. Her promise is simple and emphatic: to put people first. “The real work begins now. We will continue building a Selwyn that’s connected, thriving, and prepared for the future, one where every voice counts and every community is part of the journey,” she said. Lydia has begun her term by thanking the people of Selwyn for their trust, honesty, and belief that things can be done differently. “This wasn't mine to win as an individual, this was ours — from my team to our community. I am overwhelmed with support.” She intends to honour that trust daily, maintaining a strong public presence both online and through local media, and working closely with residents’ associations and community groups to keep decision-making transparent and participatory. Her first year will focus on three priorities: restoring transparency and
communication between the council and the community, delivering fiscal responsibility by getting back to basics and cutting waste, and empowering councillors and staff to work effectively together for Selwyn’s people. The first 100 days, she says, will be about resetting Council culture, reviewing departmental spending, and beginning genuine community engagement — “I want open conversations, not closed doors.” Family support has been central to her journey, and there’s a sense of relief that the campaign has concluded. Away from Council chambers, Lydia is happiest when she’s hands-on — fixing something on the farm, pitching in at a local planting day — and she’s quietly proud of owning the entire Footrot Flats book collection. What she loves most about Selwyn is no secret: its people and its wide-open spaces, from rural heartlands and mountains to fast-growing towns where, as she puts it, “people roll up their sleeves and make things happen.” Lydia’s election marks a
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New Selwyn Mayor Lydia Gliddon with husband Matt and daughter Hazel. significant shift in leadership for one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing regions. It follows a line of Selwyn mayors beginning with Ann Hurford of Hororata (1989–1992), followed by the late Bill Woods (1992–1995). Michael McEvedy became the longest-serving Mayor with twelve years at the helm (1995 –2007), succeeded by Kelvin Coe across three terms (2007– 2016), and most recently Sam Broughton, who also served three terms (2016–2025). In a gracious message posted to social media Sam congratulated Lydia and thanked the district he served. “To the community, thank you so much for your support through nine years of being your Mayor, it’s been a real
privilege,” he said. “And to my family, Liz and Elliot, thank you so much for your support in me through these years. The staff of Selwyn District Council, you guys rock and are awesome. I look forward to seeing good things continue in Selwyn district as you work with the new council to take us into next year’s journey.” If Lydia achieves what she’s set out to do, her legacy will be that Council finally felt like it worked for the people — with transparent, people-first leadership and smart, sustainable decisions guiding Selwyn’s future. The team at the Rolleston News congratulates Lydia and wishes her and the new Council every success as they lead Selwyn into its next chapter.
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DEADLINES: Editorial Tuesday 18 Nov ‘25 | Advertising Wednesday 19 Nov ‘25