Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Candidate statement
John is an experienced, dedicated councillor with a proven track record delivering for our communities.100% independent, his top priority is the people he represents. With a background in educational, sporting and community organisations, John brings honest, open leadership grounded in family and community values. He ‘walks the talk’, holding council leadership to account while achieving real results for our area. This term saving North Harbour Stadium and securing record billion-dollar investment in new transport and infrastructure projects. Also acquiring funding for important community projects including Flood Recovery, Scott Point Sports, Rosedale Station, Glenvar Road, ferry & bus enhancements, Orewa seawall, library upgrades. Accelerating Penlink construction, supporting harbour crossing. John’s one of the only councillors to firmly oppose unsustainable rate increases and wasteful spending. Works as a team with Wayne Walker, protecting our public reserves, golf courses, speedway, marinas and local assets. Absolutely committed to advancing every community’s future interests (www.puttingpeoplefirst.nz).
Why I want to be elected
If elected I'll continue to work with individuals and community groups across the Albany ward to ensure their interests are represented as strongly and articulately as possible. Currently there is real concern from many people over the most recent rate increases which have seen many residents face significant rate hikes in this ward. For a growing number of people especially those on fixed incomes these are simply unsustainable. Genuine consideration now needs to be given to alternatives.
My key skills and qualities
My background previously has been in educational, sporting and community organisations. Those skills working with people, communicating and processing information are helpful to this role I believe. As it stands I'm now fortunate to be an experienced councillor who over the years has been involved in a number of significant campaigns advancing various communities' interests across the Albany Ward. Dealing with the 'Super City' structure requires determination and team work with the community.
My top three key issues
My top 3 issues are: (1) Facing up to the rates conundrum (2) addressing the democratic deficit in Auckland Council's structures (3) Advancing key council projects improving infrastructure provision and community facilities across the ward - East Coast Bays, Hibiscus Coast and Upper Harbour (and working with the government to advance the big ticket items like a Second Harbour Crossing).
My position on key topics
Transport
Increasing congestion on local networks needs to be addressed through greater use of smart technology and inexpensive works aiding traffic flow. Public transport needs to be encouraged through the retention of free parking at the north's park and rides. Where possible that existing provision should be extended. Our three ferry services need to be extended to weekends and more people encouraged to catch them so that patronage grows along with the service itself. Cycling options similarly grown.
Water
Watercare has just recently started a new era as a financially separate entity from Auckland Council. This is a key component of the government’s Local Water Done Well legislation that was announced in 2024. At local level storm water management continues to be a major issue. On the Hibiscus Coast a cap exists on new wastewater connections. This is a major issue that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible if there are not to be serious repercussions for property owners & developers.
Built environment
Auckland continues to face a chronic unaffordability problem. This is damaging to the fabric of our society. Lower cost building options need to be developed & council needs to play a part in that outcome. The current government directive of wholesale intensification across the entire region undermines the Unitary Plan. Heritage protection has come under attack over successive councils - it needs to be valued and protected accordingly as part of our identity as a city
Natural environment
Auckland has seen unprecedented levels of development over the last two decades as the population has surged. Open spaces are more important now than ever given the increasing intensification. This applies to both recreational spaces and bush blocks where they exist. Council needs to up its regional park acquisition programme and be more open to the gifting of land as is sometimes offered. The levels of environmental protection must be improved in developments as shoul compliance & enforcement.
Community
Many communities in this ward have good facilities that need to be maintained and upgraded where and when required. That already happens in most instances. Albany needs a new library and that should be a priority of this next term. North Harbour Stadium is a focal point of the whole region and needs to be restored to its former glory starting with the western stand which was inexplicably demolished in 2019. The Wasp Hangar & Bomb Point at Hobsonville are important assets for that community.
Economic and cultural development
BIDS such as Business North Harbour provide a good link to local businesses and often help facilitate support - council can continue to enable and encourage these relationships and provide access to information and CCOs. Local businesses can often be adversely impacted with council projects. More meaningful consideration needs to be given as to how these impacts van be minimised - from local centres to the CBD. It affects people's livelihoods.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
The Port of Auckland is set to return $1.2 billion in dividends to the people of Auckland over the next decade. It is vital to the future prosperity of the entire region and as such must remain in public control. The last time council had a diversified fund it sold it. With the new fund assurances have been given to both the anticipated rates of return and the integrity of the fund itself. Both need to be monitored closely.
Candidate's supporting links
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