Barry Hadfield was a leading figure in laying the political, economic and social foundations of what has now evolved to become the Kapiti Coast District. His 12 years in local government included two mayoral terms from 1974 to 1980.

His entry into a public career grew from his involvement in the Paraparaumu School Committee in 1961. He was also on the Kapiti College Board of Governors and was the School Committee Representative for the District.

In 1968, Mr Hadfield was elected to the Hutt County Council. After six years he succeeded in pressuring the Government to create a separate borough for Kapiti and Mr Hadfield became its first elected mayor in 1974.

He led a new council facing major challenges. Rapid economic and residential growth between 1960 and 1975 had left the district under pressure from a lack of infrastructure development.

His vision for economic development saw the creation of the Kapiti Coast Promotion Council. It facilitated the growth of iconic businesses like Kapiti Cheese and New Zealand’s first covered mall, Coastlands Shoppingtown. Southwards Car Museum also established itself and the open saltwater pool at Raumati was upgraded to a covered freshwater heated pool.

Barry’s ability to manage local government processes in transition did not go unnoticed. While still mayor he was appointed to the Local Government Commission in 1978.

Mr Hadfield developed the popular Lindale Farm complex on his family land and was the Deputy Chair of the Kapiti District Trust Board that developed Marire Home and Sevenoaks. He is a life member of the Paraparaumu Cricket Club. A Rotarian, Mr Hadfield is guided by his personal motto ‘Do unto others what you want others to do unto you’.