Masterton actor up for political role

Bex Johnson is seeking a council seat. PHOTO/FILE

A woman whose family involvement in Wairarapa spans four generations is making a bid to become a Masterton District councillor.

Rebecca (Bex) Johnson, 54, who is known for her work in promotions and advertising and also for her roles in amateur theatre, confirmed yesterday she would be making her first ever sortie into local body politics.

Mrs Johnson has not yet decided whether she will nominate for the urban ward or stand at large but said if elected she was determined to ensure Masterton "develops and grows" in a manner which would provide for future generations.

Mrs Johnson moved back to Masterton from Hawke's Bay four years ago for family reasons.

"My mother is in care here, my son and his partner are in business here and I have grandchildren at both pre-school and at school so there are four generations involved in the community," she said.

Mrs Johnson is regional manager for MediaWorks Wairarapa and her husband, Bill, manages the Masterton Club.

Mrs Johnson said she was particularly interested in economic development and with revitalising the town's central business district.

Her work in promotions and advertising and her experience as an executive member of the Rotorua Chamber of Commerce -- recognised as one of the most successful in the country -- would help to attract more business to Masterton, she said.

Away from her work Mrs Johnson is an actor and won Masterton Amateur Theatrical Society's award for Best Female Performance in 2015.