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
I’ve been privileged to call Devonport home for more than 30 years. I'm passionate about the Shore and its breathtaking beauty. It’s an amazing place to live and a great place to visit. But our communities are facing challenges and change. We need pragmatic, future-focused solutions. As a television presenter/producer, I have spent the best part of my life telling New Zealand stories, helping the underdog get a fair go and celebrating our sporting success on the world stage. I want to ensure our slice of paradise remains a great place for future generations. Working together as a community is where we draw strength. A vote for me ensures independent decision making that's driven by a vision for a better future. I will fight for rates affordability, an end to band-aid solutions, better infrastructure, cleaner beaches and all things that help us build a prosperous community.
Why I want to be elected
We live in an amazing community! I want to champion it, help it grow and ensure that the things we love and value are protected for future generations.
My key skills and qualities
I have spent my entire life working in the television industry - helping Kiwis get a Fair Go, holding `the powers that be' to account and showcasing Kiwi sport on the international stage. It has taught me the importance of teamwork. Yes, I can be opinionated about my own opinions, but nobody has a mortgage on good ideas. Success is always collaborative. A vote for me ensures independent decision making that's driven by a vision for a better future.
My top three key issues
Our Devonport/Takapuna community has many great assets, but we can't afford to take them for granted. We MUST maintain and promote them to ensure they are retained for future generations. Once gone, they are gone for good! I promise to fight wasteful spending and band-aid solutions, make sure we get a maximum return for our rates dollar and ensure that our beaches and green spaces are pollution-free and protected for generations to come.
My position on key topics
Transport
I hate road cones, traffic congestion and unreliable public transport. As a Devonport resident, the thought of driving down Lake Road fills me with dread - let alone using the cycleway! Why, after nearly a decade of promises and rhetoric, are we still waiting for a solution? It has to be fixed. We need roads that flow, reliable public transport that's affordable, cycleways that are safe and footpaths that don't put pedestrians on the fast track to a hospital bed.
Water
The 2023 floods showcased the failings of our stormwater system and highlighted the urgent need for upgrading. This remains a priority for our community and Council needs to act quickly and decisively.
Built environment
I believe our heritage areas are a valuable asset that should be protected for future generations. I struggle with the logic of increasing housing density in areas that are already struggling with traffic congestion, poor access to public transport and inadequate stormwater systems. It doesn't make sense!
Natural environment
We are fortunate to be surrounded by green spaces and beautiful beaches. But, with the passing of every storm, many of our beaches are declared unsafe to swim due to faecal contamination. One contaminated beach is one too many! It makes a mockery of our clean/green image and highlights the need for wastewater and stormwater upgrades. I support any community initiative that will help ensure our beaches are rubbish free and our parks are pest free.
Community
Our community is facing challenges and change. We are lucky to have parks, libraries and an abundance of community facilities, but we also have a council desperate to cut costs. These facilities can't be taken for granted. They must be maintained and promoted to ensure they are retained for future generations to enjoy.
Economic and cultural development
A vibrant community is a healthy community. We need to leverage and maximise community assets, support local businesses, embrace the arts and promote sporting and cultural events.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Infrastructure costs! There is no `money tree' or `Harry Potter wand' to magically fix the cities problems. We have a responsibility to ensure ratepayers money is spent wisely. Like the saying goes, `look after the pennies and the dollars will look after themselves.' Prudent, pragmatic, future-focused decision making is the key to community prosperity.
Candidate's supporting links
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