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Redwan ISLAM

Redwan ISLAM

Candidate for Albert-Eden Local Board (Ōwairaka Subdivision)

C&R - Communities and Residents

Candidate statement

Passionate local voices must shape the future of our community and environment - I believe I am that voice for us. 'Of the people, by the people, for the people' - I live these words every day through my actions. As a proud Mount Albert Grammar Old Boy and an Albert-Eden local for three decades, this is more than where I live - it's my home. Bringing experience you can trust - a decade in governance, politics and community engagement. My mission is simple: keep our neighbourhoods safe, ease the cost of living and making sure your voice is heard through consultation and sensible decision-making. From lifting up underprivileged children through the I Have a Dream Foundation, to bringing comfort to families at Starship Children's Hospital, I've spent my entire life giving back to my community - let's keep Albert-Eden thriving, together. Vote Redwan Islam and C&R

Why I want to be elected

I want to be a strong, local voice for Albert-Eden. As a proud Mount Albert Grammar Old Boy and 30-year resident, I know this community inside out. I will fight for safe neighbourhoods, fair rates, and protection of our green spaces. A son of Mt. Albert, raised by the very community I now wish to represent - I’ve spent my entire life giving back, and now I want to continue that service by representing your voice at the decision-making table.

My key skills and qualities

I bring a proven ability to listen, engage and unite people on tough issues. My background in politics and community advisory roles has sharpened my insight, strategic thinking, and resilience. I’m practical, results-driven, and experienced in managing teams, projects and tight budgets. A bona fide people-person, I bring energy, fresh ideas, and a drive to make Albert-Eden the benchmark for safe, vibrant, connected communities across Auckland.

My top three key issues

1) Responsible spending - Ratepayers are under pressure, so every dollar must count. I’ll keep rates low while ensuring essential services and long-term infrastructure are funded. 2) Balanced transport - Roads must be safe and reliable, buses frequent, and cycling/walking routes practical, serving people without creating division. 3) Neighbourhood character - Housing growth is needed, but not at the cost of our heritage, parks, and the green spaces that make Albert-Eden special.

My position on key topics

  • Transport

    I believe transport is about balance and options. For too long our community has been pitted against one another regarding this issue. Albert-Eden needs a network that works for everyone, from drivers to public transport users to cyclists and pedestrians. Roads must be safe and well-maintained, busses reliable, and walking/cycling routes practical and connected to where people actually go. I back solutions that are achievable and affordable that don’t disrupt the very communities they serve.

  • Water

    I’ll endeavor to keep our water assets under local control, invest in storm-water upgrades, and back real solutions like rainwater tanks. Albert-Eden has seen the real impact of flooding, and we must act now to flood-proof our neighbourhoods with smarter infrastructure. I support projects like the Central Interceptor as a good start. These projects should serve the community, not be swallowed by bureaucracy.

  • Built environment

    Albert-Eden’s future depends on how we grow. I support more housing, but I reject the idea that it must come at the expense of our heritage, green spaces and community character. Housing growth CANNOT be rushed, it must be focused around transport hubs with infrastructure in place before new homes are built. Our Board should stand for growth that strengthens communities, where new developments feel like a part of our neighbourhoods, not just projects dropped onto a map.

  • Natural environment

    We must preserve and enhance the natural beauty that makes Albert-Eden special. This includes investing in pest control, planting native trees and cracking down on illegal dumping of rubbish. Nature based solutions like wetlands protect us from floods whilst improving our quality of life. I will back projects that combine environmental protection with practical benefits for our residents.

  • Community

    I want to push for a stronger community though connection, participation and pride. I want to see my community buzzing with local events, active public spaces and facilities that are well-used and well-loved. To do this, I will champion affordable access to our halls, sports grounds and community centres - so that schools, clubs and grassroots organisations can thrive. I want to back local initiatives and facilitate the mechanisms whereby our residents can lead the charge.

  • Economic and cultural development

    Encourage and support events that bring people in, improve safety and cleanliness, and cut down unnecessary council hurdles for small business owners. I believe in partnering with local business associations to revitalize our vibrant and culturally diverse markets. Economic growth and cultural development are not separate goals, they feed each other. By investing in our cultural diversity, we attract visitors, build community pride and give local businesses more customers.

  • Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori

    I believe in lean, effective local government that is transparent with spending and productive with assets. I support the Auckland Future Fund for its long-term benefits. My approach is practical and respectful, Māori are integral to Auckland’s history and identity. What I do NOT support is creating extra layers of bureaucracy that confuse and divide. Every initiative must have a clear benefit, my focus is on outcomes that make sense, deliver value and bring ALL of Albert-Eden together.

Candidate's supporting links

These links to external websites have been provided by the candidates. The content on these websites does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.

Disclaimer

The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.