Council profile: Jinty MacTavish

Jinty MacTavish.

Dunedin's youngest city councillor, Jinty MacTavish, 28, wants to see local-food growing parks and more investment in ways of getting round the city other than cars.

She would represent a youth voice within Dunedin City Council, she said, and make local body decision-making more accessible to the city's young people.

MacTavish said it was critical that when the council made decisions that would affect Dunedin's residents over the next 50 to 100 years, it kept in mind low-carbon options and preparing for the impact of climate change.

She wants to reduce the city's reliance on fuel and introduce sustainable transport and energy options.

"Our transportation network traditionally has been very focused on the private motor vehicle," she said, "which means there hasn't been much investment in public transport or in active transport modes; things like cycling or pedestrians."

A keen gardener, MacTavish said food was a powerful ally for Dunedin and that local food growing parks would be good for communities - increasing growing skills, saving money, connecting neighbours and helping to live a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

She also holds strong views on built heritage and wants to help maintain traditional values, and an increased emphasis on Fair Trade.