Liz Koh, a long term Kāpiti resident, first set up her financial planning business, Moneymax, here 23 years ago following a successful management career.
“I am an active Rotarian, former Chair of the Chamber of Commerce, and was heavily involved in the creation of Kāpiti’s first Economic Development Strategy. I am the founding Chair of KEDA (Kāpiti Economic Development Association) and fought hard to help establish Work Ready Kāpiti, an organisation focussed on youth employment.”
Ms Koh says Kāpiti needs visionary leadership to achieve its potential. “It needs a Council which provides strategic direction rather than being bogged down in operational detail and short-term thinking. She says without this, Kāpiti will fail to achieve its full potential.
“We need a Council which will engage with the community to develop an ambitious plan for our region which is both innovative and affordable, and which acknowledges that many of our ratepayers are struggling financially. Housing, health care and social services are critical issues. But we need to do more than survive – we need to thrive. That means building a vibrant economy which creates local jobs.”
Ms Koh says sound financial management is crucial, however that doesn’t mean being miserly. It means investing in projects that will provide benefits such as economic development and community wellbeing.
“I have a track record of getting things done, practical common sense, business acumen and above all strategic thinking. My wish is to offer my skills to Kāpiti to set us on the path to a vibrant, thriving community.”
For nine years Liz Koh served as the Deputy Chair of the Nikau Foundation and established the Nikau Kāpiti Fund and Creative Kāpiti Fund. As a trustee of Creative Kāpiti Charitable Trust, she continues as a keen supporter of the arts.
