Bridget Bell

Ngā Tapuae o Matangi Māori Ward, Manawatū District Council

Bridget Bell

Bridget descends from the region known as the heart stands still, Manawatū. As a first-term Māori Ward councillor, her heart beats strongly for rangatahi Māori with a strong focus on the wellbeing of her local iwi and wider community. She also contributes nationally as a member of both the Te Maruata and Young Elected Members (YEM) committees, supporting Māori leadership and future-focused governance across Aotearoa. 

Bridget’s professional background includes roles with the Massey Business School and the Crown Forestry Rental Trust, underpinned by an academic background in communications. She is also the co-author of Where Injustice and Inequality Remain for One, Equals Partnership for None, reflecting her commitment to partnership, equity, and meaningful change. 

Her passion for local government lies in fostering intergenerational partnerships that promote environmental sustainability and resilient, thriving communities.