Candidate statement: John Bache, Wānaka–Upper Clutha Community Board

Candidate statement: John Bache, Wānaka–Upper Clutha Community Board

"Entrepreneur, international business strategist, and long-time action sports advocate John Bache has announced his candidacy for the Wānaka–Upper Clutha Community Board in the upcoming local elections.

After more than two decades living and working in Germany, Bache returned to Aotearoa in 2024 and has since made Wānaka his home. He brings over 20 years of global experience helping organisations adapt, grow, and communicate clearly in complex environments.

“I’m standing because I care deeply about this place and the people who call it home,” says Bache.

“This is a truly special community — and making good decisions now will shape how well we thrive in the future.”

A passionate snowboarder and mountain biker since the 1980s, Bache was part of New Zealand’s first wave of riders, and began actively advocating for both sports in the 1990s through media, industry, and policy channels.

His campaign priorities include sustainable growth, support for local business, improved access to health services (especially mental health), and stronger public infrastructure particularly public transport and safe bike paths.

On environmental issues, Bache is especially focused on the protection and restoration of local waterways, which he sees as a defining and threatened asset of the Upper Clutha region.

“I believe in community-led decision-making, and I’m here to listen, learn, and put in the mahi,” says Bache. “If I can be useful to the future of this place, I’d be honoured to serve.”