Pip Kempthorne — When the armchair critic became a council candidate

Like everyone, Pip had plenty of thoughts about how things could be done differently at Council. The difference? He decided the best way to have a say was to get elected.

“I was frustrated and decided that if I wanted things to change, I needed to be part of the solution rather than standing on the sidelines throwing stones.”

First came turning up to Cambridge Community Board meetings and learning how local government actually works. Eventually, he put his hand up for Council.

Elected to the Cambridge Ward last year, Pip soon discovered there was a lot more happening behind the scenes than most people realise.

“Waipā District Council is a complex organisation. It’s a constant balancing act between managing assets, making responsible financial decisions and focusing on what matters to the community.”

With a background in executive recruitment and organisational performance, Pip naturally looks for ways to improve — asking how things can work better for the people Council serves.

He’s particularly passionate about Cambridge Connections and getting the community more meaningfully involved in shaping big projects.

Building trust matters too.

“I’d love to see our resident satisfaction survey improve significantly. To me, that would show we’re listening, improving and getting things right for our community.”

Away from Council, Pip is President of Tieke Golf Estate and a fan of one of Cambridge’s greatest natural shows: autumn.

“I love Cambridge in autumn. The whole town just sparkles in the sunshine.”