From Greenhouse to Council: The Family Behind Kaipara’s Next Mayor

When you see Ash, you see a candidate with decades of experience in finance, dedication to Kaipara, and a clear vision for local leadership. But behind that public persona is a family story rooted in partnership, values, and community spirit.

A Journey Together: Mamta & Ash

Ash and his wife Mamta have been married for 34 years, and have been calling New Zealand home for the last 24 years.

They have lived in Dargaville for close to a decade, and describe each moment as deeply joyful. Their shared passion for community is reflected in hands-on projects like running greenhouses growing fresh Asian vegetables for locals to buy—an endeavor born from Mamta’s love of gardening and dedication to sustainability.

Raising Engineers, Building Futures

The Nayyars arrived in New Zealand in 2001 with two young children, then aged around 7 and 10. Today, both children are professional engineers—a reflection of the family’s deep commitment to education, hard work, and creating opportunity.

Their son, Ang Nayyar, is not only an engineer but also a successful entrepreneur. He founded StrutFit, a Kiwi tech startup that provides innovative sizing solutions for footwear and apparel retailers. StrutFit helps brands reduce returns and improve customer satisfaction through personalized size recommendations. The company has partnered with global names like UGG, HOKA, and TEVA, and proudly employs local talent in New Zealand.

In 2020, their daughter gave birth to their first grandchild, and Mamta played a central role in raising him during his early years. In 2025, the family celebrated the arrival of their second grandson—another joyful milestone.

Beyond Politics: Community in Action

This is a family deeply woven into the fabric of Kaipara. Ash’s years as a Rotary Club president and local advocate reflect values passed down at home — service, integrity and giving back.

The couple even faced the fury of Cyclone Gabrielle together—clinging to a fire engine amid floodwaters at their Awakino Point home—only to emerge moved by the kindness of neighbours and volunteers in their rescue.

Why Family Matters to the Campaign

Theme	Family Insight
Partnership	Mamta and Ash’s life in Kaipara is built in sync—through shared endeavours from community gardens to family goals.
Values in Practice	Their dedication to raising two children who became engineers, along with their active involvement in local initiatives, reflects a deep commitment to education, hard work, and sustainable living. You may have met their daughter and son-in-law during door knocking in the last campaign. This time, you’ll meet their son out in the community, while their daughter focuses on raising a newborn and a preschooler.
Rooted in the Community	Their personal resilience—through floods and civic engagement—mirrors Ash’s campaign promise of transparency, accountability, and service to the people.