Meet Councillor Peter Oskam
"Most of all I want progress, and I want the community to have a clear voice in defining what success looks like."
A Vision for Thoughtful, Local Governance
Peter understands that Whanganui faces significant challenges that require careful consideration and strategic planning. He advocates for solutions that keep decision-making close to the community, ensuring that local knowledge guides our path forward.
"Remote decision-making is too slow and too blunt," Peter explains. "It lacks local nuance and on-the-ground understanding and it also insulates decision-makers from responsibility and accountability."
This philosophy is evident in his approach to the Takahuri Trust project, where he and Louise are working with neighbouring Marae to support and influence river and land projects. Their attention to local history—acknowledging that their portion of the river had big kūmara gardens and was densely settled in pre-European times—shows respect for the area's cultural heritage.
Peter's view on Three Waters reform is that while our priority must be protecting what already works well for our community, making Whanganui 'future-ready' will require targeted improvements. “Whanganui has managed all three waters extremely well over the past 20 years,' Peter notes. 'However, to prepare for unforeseen circumstances, any policy must work effectively for all communities along the entire Whanganui River catchment – from mountain to sea.”
Revitalising Our City Centre
Peter envisions a vibrant city centre that serves as more than just a shopping district. He aims to make it "really entertaining and a place that people want to go, not just to shop but just to congregate and communicate." This vision reflects his understanding that thriving communities need spaces for connection and engagement.
Amplifying Whanganui's Unique Voice
"The awa gives Whanganui a unique culture and a unique voice. I would like to see it amplified, locally of course, but even nationally and beyond," Peter says. He sees Te Awa Tupua as a game-changer for engagement from both inside and outside the region. Peter hopes the independent review of local government will lead to positive growth for Whanganui and plans to "implement strategies to improve citizen engagement and the quality of local democracy."
A Straightforward Approach
Peter prides himself on being straightforward rather than political. "I'm not left. I'm not right. I'm pretty straightforward. Most of all I want progress, and I want the community to have a clear voice in defining what success looks like - and a strong hand in achieving that."
Uniting Our Community Clusters
Through his work on the Rural Community Board, Peter has observed that Whanganui is made up of a "cluster" of small communities, each with its own individuality. As mayor, he aims to bring these diverse communities together while respecting their unique characteristics.
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Deep Local Roots & Environmental Stewardship
Born and raised in Whanganui, Peter has built his life here—marrying and raising his family in the community he loves. Together with his wife Louise, Peter has demonstrated a profound commitment to environmental stewardship and community sharing through their Takahuri Trust project.
The Oskams have planted 70,000 trees on their 50-hectare property upriver from Kaiwhaiki Pā, creating long-term, sustainable forestry that balances commercial viability with environmental protection. Their vision extends beyond mere profit—they're developing a multi-use space with walking and mountain biking tracks, native plantings, and water management systems that return clean water to the Whanganui River.
"It's commercial forestry and it has to be commercially sustainable, but it will be aesthetic and enjoyable," Peter explains of the project that showcases his practical approach to sustainable development.
Having previously owned Creative Aluminium, Peter's professional background combines entrepreneurial spirit with hands-on business experience. As a chartered member of the Institute of Directors and trained in Restorative Justice, he brings professional governance expertise and a commitment to fair, thoughtful leadership to his public service work.
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Environmental Vision & Community Sharing
Peter and Louise's land project exemplifies their approach to community and environmental stewardship. They've worked with the Whanganui River Enhancement Trust, collaborated with Fish & Game, and consulted with local experts like advisor Ian Moore who has his own successful combination of forestry and conservation.
"We want to share our special space," Louise explains of their philosophy. The couple envisions their land being used for multiple community purposes—from supervised duckshooting experiences for beginners to native flax weaving gatherings, all while maintaining the ecological integrity of the area.
This project demonstrates Peter's ability to balance commercial interests with environmental protection and community access—skills directly applicable to municipal governance.
Their approach to removing willows along 2km of the river and replacing them with native trees shows a commitment to enhancing the natural environment while respecting its cultural significance.
Peter’s Commitment to Whanganui
Peter wants to be judged on how he has "increased the effectiveness of our community and the council as a key local decision-maker in implementing national reforms."
And how will he accomplish this? "Through hard work. There are no shortcuts. And, there are no excuses. You have to put in the hours."
Peter Oskam is ready to serve from day one, committed to leading Whanganui into a thriving future—one that honours our unique character while addressing the challenges ahead with practical, community-focused solutions.