Abi Symes A 20-year-old lesbian and student DJ has announced a bold bid to become the youngest mayor in New Zealand history. Abi Symes is standing in the February by-election for the Palmerson North Mayoralty, following the resignation of Jono Naylor, who is now a National MP. “I love living in the Manawatu,” the Palmerston North raised Symes says. “I want to be an ambassador for our city and its people.” She is passionate about engaging voters, especially young people, and is concerned about the low voter turnout in the recent general election. “People need to care about politics, especially on a local level. I want to engage people with the issues that affect them.” Symes is already active in the local arts scene, as a member of the management committee which oversees music hub The Stomach. “My experience there has shown me the effect local government has on ordinary people. I want to be a voice for the community,” she says. She says she appreciates all the opportunities Palmerston North presents for families as well as youth and young professionals. “I want to show the world what the locals already know,” she says. “Palmerston North is a great place to live.” Symes is funding her campaign through crowdfunding website PledgeMe and will is popping up around the city with a couch, so residents can sit down and have a chat. You can check out Abi Symes’ Facebook page here
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 14th October 2014 - 10:59am