The next couple of months before the local elections will speed by, and already I’ve found myself doing things for the last time.

While I’ll be a spectator in the contest to elect a new mayor and councillors, I still have plenty of work to do … and this week I attended a meeting of the Ashburton District Biodiversity Advisory Group for the final time.

The group meets every three months and represents all manner of people interested in our environment, from farmers and catchment collectives, to Fish and Game and the Department of Conservation.

It was also the last meeting for Councillors Leen Braam and Lynette Lovett, who are also retiring from local body politics.

A piece of work that the advisory group is very proud of is the Biodiversity Strategy, which has guidelines and an action plan to protect, restore and enhance our biodiversity and ecosystems.

We had some special guests from the Waimate District Council attend the meeting too, to observe and learn about our group’s collaborative approach to getting things done, despite the varying points of view.

It’s good to see our members both challenging and backing regulatory decisions that will impact the Ashburton District and its ability to thrive ecologically and economically.

It’s also good to be back in the rhythm of meetings and Council work, and I can see councillors refreshed after a break. Charging the batteries with family and friends fuels you for what can be a tough, but rewarding job.

Now that the nominations for the local elections are in, I urge voters to check out those who want to sit around the Council table and vote when the ballot papers arrive in letterboxes.

It's important to know what candidates stand for, why they want the job and to see and hear the skills they will bring to keep this district on a solid platform for growth.