David Walter (politician) facts for kids

David Ernest Walter (born 25 November 1939, died 5 September 2020) was an important politician and journalist from New Zealand. He was the very first mayor of Stratford District Council. He held this job from 1989 to 1998. David Walter also led the Taranaki Regional Council from 2001 to 2007. Before that, he was the chairman of the Stratford County Council from 1983 to 1989.

About David Walter

David Walter was born in Stratford on 25 November 1939. His parents were Anita and Edward Ernest Walter. His family had many important people. His grandfather, Edward Walter, was also a County Chairman and a Member of Parliament. His brother, Neil Walter, became a diplomat. His uncle, Jack Walter, and his cousin, Alan Smith, were both famous All Blacks rugby players.

David went to school at Douglas Primary School. He then attended New Plymouth Boys' High School. In 1966, he married Isabel Carryer. They had three children together.

His Work and Public Service

Journalist and Historian

After finishing school, David Walter worked as a journalist in Europe. Later, he came back to Douglas to help with his family's sheep and beef farm. He also worked as a local reporter for the Taranaki Daily News.

David was very good at finding and writing historical stories. He also enjoyed writing about interesting people. In 1977, he became the honorary historian for the county. His goal was to create a book for the 1990 centennial celebration. The book, The Stratford Inheritance, was published in 1990. David's research was a big part of this book.

Political Career

In 1974, David Walter was elected as a councillor for Stratford County. In 1983, he became the chairman of the County Council. He stayed in this role until 1989. That year, the County Council joined with the Stratford Borough Council. This created the new Stratford District Council. This change was part of bigger local government reforms happening across New Zealand.

David Walter played a key role in keeping Stratford independent. Some people wanted it to join with other bigger councils. But he helped make sure Stratford kept its own district council. He was then elected as the first mayor of Stratford District Council. He served as mayor for three terms, which is nine years, until 1998. It is said that he came up with the name "Forgotten World Highway" for State Highway 43.

After 15 years leading local government, David Walter decided to move on. He became a councillor for the Taranaki Regional Council. In November 2001, he became the chairman of this council. He retired from this position in 2007.

David Walter was also involved in many other important groups. He led the TSB Community Trust. He was also a director at TSB Bank. He represented the Regional Council on the board of Westgate Transport Ltd.

Awards and Recognition

In 1990, David Walter received the New Zealand 1990 Commemoration Medal. This medal honored his contributions to New Zealand. In 1995, he was given another special award. He was made a Companion of the Queen's Service Order for his public services.

Later Life

David Walter passed away on 5 September 2020. He was 80 years old. He died from leukaemia at his home in New Plymouth.

See also

• List of mayors of Stratford, New Zealand