About Luka Jansen
I’m a proud Horowhenua local, wife, and mother. Growing up in rural New Zealand, I’ve spent most of my life in tight-knit small-town communities. I was raised with the values of hard work, fairness, and respect. Attending a decile 1 primary school gave me early insight into the challenges people face, and those experiences shaped my belief that every Kiwi—regardless of background—deserves a fair shot at success. I’m committed to inclusion, equity, and the power of empathy to build thriving communities.
My career spans regulation, policy, and advocacy. With big challenges ahead for Councils, I want to use my experience to help build smarter, fairer systems where communities can thrive. Yet, the reality is that many people in the community are struggling—and I want to change that.
Credentials & Experience
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Degree in Resource & Environmental Planning (Massey University)
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Deep roots in the primary sector with strong networks and knowledge; locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.
Rising costs, duplication of public services, and complex Council rules are having a negative impact on society. Rate increases year after year are unsustainable.
Going forward, we need the local government reform to better services; achieve cleaner, safer water, robust flood protection, affordable transport (including school buses), and strong emergency management. At present, Councils are struggling to achieve this without asking for central government help and funds.
Horowhenua is the food basket of the lower North Island—a real strength we can build on. It’s encouraging to see growers producing top-quality food while adopting better land management practices.
Positive Council initiatives are underway but have cost too much and are yet to deliver. For example, the Arawhata Wetland Project offers multiple benefits and an opportunity to improve local water quality through education, collaboration and innovation. However, will this be achieved? At present, many locals feel that their concerns have been ignored by Horizons particularly the risk of flooding of nearby properties as a result of the project.
