Mayor Sophie Barker

Profile

I have a very simple goal. Make Dunedin the best place to live in New Zealand – a city that works for everyone. This means that Dunedin becomes a magnet for people attracted by our unrivalled lifestyle and opportunities in our world class city. I am committed to bold ambitions for transformation, partnerships and livability

My background is in tourism, heritage, business, marketing, conservation and economic development. I’ve a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics from Otago University, an EDIT fellowship from the University of Hawaii and am an RMA Commissioner.

Most of my working life was spent at Larnach Castle, our family business. I spent seven years at the DCC Economic Development Unit as a business advisor, five years Marketing Manager for Otago Peninsula Trust and was elected to Council in 2019 where I became Chair of Heritage Fund, Strategy, Planning and Engagement, and member of advisory committees.

To relax I read, garden and enjoy community events.