Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Garth ELLINGHAM
Candidate for Devonport-Takapuna Local Board
Candidate statement
Garth grew up in Narrow Neck and still calls the beach home. His family’s long service with Wakatere Boating Club and North Shore Rugby Club embedded a spirit of community action. A civil and environmental engineer (BE, University of Auckland) and professional sailor, his international career exposed him to many ways societies tackle issues, and reinforced how fortunate Devonport-Takapuna is. Back on the Shore he co-founded LUCKE, proving business can succeed sustainably, and works at Chiropractic Alchemy in Milford. Garth’s priorities are practical: cleaner water and healthier beaches, fixes to the peninsula’s transport snarls, and squeezing maximum value from ratepayer dollars. He is tired of politics chaining progress. His principle is simple: 'choose to care.' That means listening first, not following agendas, negotiating differences and, when needed, compromising to secure the best community outcome. He wants residents to see their money delivering tangible benefits to regain trust in local government.
Why I want to be elected
I'm frustrated with politics and the lack of progress. I’m putting my money where my mouth is and want to make a difference. If elected, I’ll prioritise working on solutions to get traffic flowing for cars and public transport; improve stormwater systems to protect our coastline and deliver swimmable water quality for our beaches; ensure every dollar counts through transparent, evidence-based spending; and listen first, act on facts, backing projects that build a strong, engaged community.
My key skills and qualities
I’m a professional sailor and civil-environmental engineer, adept at making precise, high-stakes decisions under pressure. After witnessing the ocean’s decline firsthand, I founded LUCKE Apparel, a New Zealand sustainable workwear business dedicated to ethical innovation and transparency. I bring entrepreneurial drive, strategic problem-solving, clear communication, empathy, and a community-first, results-oriented mindset.
My top three key issues
1. Reliable Transport Obviously a massive bone of contention. Whatever side of the fence you sit on with regards to cars and public transport some tough decisions need to be made. 2. Coastline & Water Quality One of the best parts of living on the Shore is access to the water, yet every time it rains we’re told not to swim. That’s not good enough. 3. Community First Ratepayer funds should deliver measurable benefit. I want to rebuild trust through practical action and transparent governance.
My position on key topics
Transport
Cars will always have a place but after time in Europe and the US, I’ve seen how cities thrive when they prioritise public transport, cycling, and walking. With Auckland’s continued growth, reliable public transport is the answer. That means smart investment, behaviour change, and tools like congestion charges could be used to help fund new infrastructure. We should also explore flexible options such as reversible lanes or bus lanes at peak times to ease gridlock and keep people moving.
Water
It's well known Auckland has major water issues, from supply to quality. I believe in practical, community-first action: securing our water supply with smarter storage and conservation, improving drinking water quality, and investing in stormwater upgrades to reduce flooding and stopping pollution and sediment reaching our coastlines. We must also modernise wastewater systems to stop sewage spills and protect our beaches so they're swimmable year-round!
Built environment
Urban intensification is inevitable for Auckland, but it must be done smartly. We can integrate townhouses and apartments into mixed-use areas without losing what makes our city special. That means insisting on good design, ample green spaces, and modern infrastructure, all while safeguarding our heritage buildings. It’s a practical, community-first approach that delivers housing and preserves our character.
Natural environment
Climate resilience needs action now. I’ll drive improvements in stormwater systems and advocate for green infrastructure like rain gardens and urban wetlands that reduce flooding. Partnering with communities on tree planting and mangrove restoration will protect our homes and beaches, absorb carbon, strengthening our city against extreme weather. I am also a big fan of keeping and making use of our green spaces. Encouraging community gardens and composting seems like a no brainer to me.
Community
Building strong communities is a team effort. I’ll collaborate with local schools, charities, Mana Whenua, and businesses to expand services and facilities creatively. From community gardens to youth programmes, I will support grassroots initiatives that connect people. My focus is practical and inclusive, delivering better local results by empowering our community every step of the way.
Economic and cultural development
As a local business owner and community member, I know jobs, culture, and business are connected. I'll support initiatives that help small businesses, vibrant community markets and arts events that attract visitors and bring us together, and support local Māori and Pasifika initiatives.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
As someone who is not Māori, I acknowledge their struggles faced and will work with local iwi and help where possible in my role. For the Port of Auckland, I believe there should be no further encroachment into the harbour, with a long-term plan to move it. And with extreme events becoming more frequent, supporting the Auckland Future Fund makes sense to build resilience for the future.
Candidate's supporting links
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