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The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Karleen Florence REEVE
Candidate for Devonport-Takapuna Local Board
A Fresh Approach
Candidate statement
I’m a long-time Devonport local, passionate about community and the environment. I’ve worked to strengthen local connections and drive environmental initiatives. I'm a former Chair of the Devonport Community House. I also founded the North Shore Bluegreens, bringing together people who care about both the environment and the economy. Over the past 25 years I’ve been on committees and organised public events, including recent forums with the Ministers for Conservation and Climate Change. I believe in protecting our beaches, restoring marine life in the Hauraki Gulf, and supporting thriving town centres. I manage retail properties and have started and run small businesses, so I understand the pressures and potential of our local economy. I hold science and business degrees and have accounting experience. Local government should listen, act, and be transparent. If elected, I’ll bring energy, experience, and a fresh approach. Environment. Economy. Community. Six ticks for A Fresh Approach.
Why I want to be elected
I’ll lead on stormwater and wastewater upgrades to protect our waterways and beaches. I’ll work to safeguard our coastlines and restore marine biodiversity along our coast. I’ll champion smart investment in local infrastructure, ensure real value for rates, and back local small businesses. Ill encourage tourists to participate in our community and I will celebrate our arts. I care deeply about people of all ages and abilities, and I’ll work hard for the North Shore community that I love.
My key skills and qualities
I bring strong leadership, communication, and governance experience from years in community organisations and environmental advocacy. I’m analytical, solutions-focused, and not afraid to ask hard questions or challenge waste. I know how council works and how to make it work better for locals. I’ll listen, act with integrity, and work hard to deliver practical outcomes for our environment, economy, and community — now and for future generations.
My top three key issues
Protecting our coastlines is a top priority — I’m passionate about restoring marine biodiversity and supporting stormwater and wastewater upgrades to keep our beaches and waterways clean. I also want to ensure smarter council spending, with better oversight and real value for rates, especially for essential local infrastructure. Finally, I care deeply about creating vibrant, inclusive communities — supporting local businesses and building a healthy, vibrant community for all ages and abilities.
My position on key topics
Transport
Devonport–Takapuna wants safer, more reliable, and climate-friendly transport. I support better bus and ferry services that are frequent, affordable, well-connected to town centres and schools. Fixing broken footpaths and roads is a priority, along with safer walking and cycling routes—especially near schools. I support fair, practical parking management that works for residents and local businesses. I'll advocate for projects that reflect our community’s needs and push for greater transparency.
Water
Auckland’s water must be managed to protect health, the environment, and future generations. I support investment to reduce wastewater overflows, improve stormwater systems, and protect our beaches and marine life. Development must not harm water quality, especially around the Hauraki Gulf. Water conservation and efficiency are essential for long-term supply. I oppose privatisation of Watercare and support strong public accountability in how water services are delivered and funded.
Built environment
Built Environment I support thoughtful urban development that reflects local character, meets housing needs, and protects our heritage. We need quality, well-designed housing with the infrastructure to match—especially transport, stormwater, and community facilities. I support intensification in the right places, near town centres and public transport. Our historic areas and valued green spaces must be protected. Community voices should be central in planning decisions.
Natural environment
I’m committed to protecting and restoring Auckland’s natural environment. That means investing in native planting, pest control, and restoring coastal and marine ecosystems like the Hauraki Gulf. I support expanding urban ngahere (tree cover), improving water quality, and creating climate-resilient green spaces. Community groups play a vital role in this work—I’ll support local initiatives that enhance biodiversity and protect our parks, beaches, and bush for future generations.
Community
Strong communities are built on connection, inclusion, and access to great local services. I’ll support funding for libraries, community centres, events, and recreational facilities that bring people together. I’m committed to ensuring our young people, seniors, and diverse communities feel heard and supported. I’ll work to strengthen partnerships with local groups and improve communication so residents can help shape decisions that affect them.
Economic and cultural development
I support a vibrant local economy that boosts small businesses, especially in our town centres. Helping local shops, cafes, and services thrive creates jobs and keeps our community strong. I also value promoting our unique cultural heritage—including Māori and settler histories—to enrich community identity and tourism. Investing in arts, events, and creative industries will help build a resilient, diverse economy that benefits all residents.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I believe in meaningful partnerships with local iwi and hapū, especially in caring for our public spaces and Devonport-Takapuna's unique culture. Te Tiriti o Waitangi is the foundation document of Aotearoa New Zealand and guides our shared future. I support managing the Port of Auckland thoughtfully, balancing economic, environmental, and community interests. I also see growing the Auckland Future Fund and supporting storm recovery as key to building a strong, resilient region for everyone.
Candidate's supporting links
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