Vincent Community Board (VCB) member Jayden Cromb made history for Central Otago District Council today when he was sworn in as the youngest ever elected member.
The 27-year-old of the Waikato iwi was sworn in with the other members Tamah Alley, Roger Browne, Tony Hammington, Dai Johns, Martin McPherson and Tracy Paterson at the inaugural VCB meeting held in Ngā Hau e Whā (Council chambers) Monday 31 October 2022.
Jayden, who is a sixth generation Central Otago resident was given a stirring waiata by supporters when he gave his declaration of office, reflecting his Māori heritage. After the meeting he said:
(Te Reo version)
“E hōnore ana ahau, ki te kaiwhakarite i te Vincent mō ngā hapori o Uruuruwhenua. Ngā mihi nui ki ngā whanau me ngā kaitautoko o tēnei wāhi.Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.”
(English translation)
“It is an honour to represent the Vincent and wider Central Otago Community. I am thankful to my supporters and whanau.”
In his citation before election, Jayden said he represented the younger, Māori voice to Council. He is a father of three and has worked in the social service sector for five years. He chairs the local youth trust and is involved in the governance of a number of charities locally.
During the meeting, Tamah was made community board chair and Jayden deputy chair for the 2022-2025 triennium.
