Central Hawke's Bay regional councillor Debbie Hewitt to exit regional politics

Debbie Hewitt will step down ahead of this year's local body elections. Photo / Supplied

Two-term Hawke's Bay regional councillor Debbie Hewitt is stepping down at this year's local government elections in October.

In announcing her decision Hewitt, who represents Central Hawke's Bay, said it had been a "tremendous honour and privilege" representing the people of that district.

"While I've absolutely loved the role, I do feel the time is right for me to hand over the baton," Hewitt said.

"With a wealth of talent our community, this is a great opportunity for someone else to step up and represent CHB, and the region. I also think it's important to give somebody else plenty of time to prepare for the opportunity to represent CHB.

"Throughout my six-year term I have remained fully engaged representing a large range of community views and expectations. I've been incredibly fortunate to have a tremendous support team around me. This role is definitely not for the faint-hearted."

She said for her the highlights have been the people she has engaged with.

A low light was "the loss" of the Ruataniwha water storage scheme.

"The ability to for the project to deliver tremendous environmental, social, cultural and economic benefits was always compelling. Knowing the potential of the scheme, I found it very difficult to watch the opportunity for the region disposed of.

"In the lead-up to the changing of guard, I definitely won't be taking my foot off the throttle in terms of representation. I'll always have the best interests of the region at heart."

Fellow councillor Alan Dick said Hewitt will be a "real loss" to the region. "Being young and the only woman brought a special perspective, as well as being intelligent and business-=wise," Dick said.

"She undoubtedly felt some frustration at the comparative marginalisation of the two small rural constituencies (Wairoa and Central Hawke's Bay) but always was a strong advocate for them.

"I hope that her successor will offer similar high qualities and that the new council will comprise true independents like Debbie."