Grey Power NZ Federation has elected David Marshall as its new National President, with the experienced Grey Power leader calling for a stronger national voice for senior New Zealanders as the country faces major debates over retirement income, healthcare, housing and the cost of living.
Marshall was elected at Grey Power’s annual meeting following more than a decade of service within the organisation and extensive leadership experience in community advocacy, local government and the private sector.
“Grey Power has a vital role to play in ensuring the voices of older New Zealanders are heard by politicians, policymakers and the wider community,” Marshall says.
“I am passionate about building a stronger, more sustainable organisation that can continue to advocate effectively for older people in a rapidly changing environment. We must ensure Grey Power remains the recognised and respected champion for senior New Zealanders.”
Marshall says one of the most significant issues facing Grey Power during his presidency would be the growing debate over the future of New Zealand Superannuation.
“Decisions made over the next few years could have profound implications for both current and future retirees. Grey Power intends to be at the forefront of that discussion and ensure the views of older New Zealanders are heard.
“This debate is already underway within Grey Power, and I encourage all those 50+ year olds approaching retirement to join their local association so they too can contribute their views on what sustainable retirement income should look like.”
He says Grey Power will also focus on growing membership, improving member services and continuing to modernise the organisation’s systems and processes.
“Research shows there is strong support for Grey Power’s mission among older New Zealanders who are not currently members. We need to better connect with those people and demonstrate the value of collective advocacy on the issues that matter most to seniors.”
Having served as Grey Power’s National Vice-President since 2023, Marshall has played a leading role in strengthening the organisation’s advocacy, modernising its communications and improving its public profile.
He joined the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty Association in 2015, serving as vice-president for more than seven years before being elected to the national board as a zone representative in 2020. He currently chairs Grey Power’s retirement income and taxation portfolio and the organisation’s marketing committee.
Marshall is spearheading the development of a pilot project for older retirees currently unable to downsize from three-to-four bedroom homes in their local community, due to lack of access to bridging finance.
Before retiring to the Bay of Plenty, Marshall enjoyed a diverse career spanning education, healthcare marketing and consulting, including senior international roles in New Zealand, Australia and Germany. He served as a district councillor, hearings commissioner, community trust leader and volunteer mentor.
Marshall will be supported by the Grey Power board comprising Carolyn Bates, Nerrily Frith, Lew Findlay (treasurer), Terry King, Bill Obers, Graeme Peters (vice president), and Margaret Sole (national secretary).
Grey Power New Zealand represents tens of thousands of older New Zealanders through its nationwide network of local associations. The organisation advocates on issues including retirement income, healthcare, housing, transport, energy costs and the rights and wellbeing of older people.
