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
My name is Kaumosi Opie and I'm standing for the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board because I care deeply about our community. I've lived on the North Shore since I was nine, attending Devonport Primary, Belmont Intermediate and Takapuna Grammar before settling in Hauraki with my husband Sean and our four children. We own a home here, and I run a small cake business while studying BSc in Psychology at Massey University. I'm a 39-year-old Tuvaluan woman who understands the challenges new arrivals face. I've spent years volunteering in grassroots, cultural and youth initiatives and coaching kids' sports teams. I'm not a career politician. I'm a local parent who wants to see real representation and practical support for everyday people. I'm running because I want our voices to be better heard in council decisions. Let's ensure the North Shore thrives today and for future generations. Vote Kaumosi Opie and C&R
Why I want to be elected
I’m a mum of four raising my family here in Hauraki Cnr, and I’m passionate about building a safe, thriving community. I’ll fight for fair funding, support youth, maintain and upgrade our parks, sports facilities, and community centres, and advocate for stronger neighbourhood safety through community policing. Most importantly, I’ll listen to you and represent the voices that are too often missing from council decisions.
My key skills and qualities
I bring seven years of experience in youth development programmes, charity governance, and financial accountability as a small business owner. Alongside this, I’ve coached and managed children’s and youth sports and organised local tournaments, building strong leadership and community engagement skills. As a Tuvaluan, I hold deeply to the principle of serving others and carry a strong sense of collective responsibility, always valuing the wellbeing of the whole community.
My top three key issues
Youth Development: Work closely with young people, support their growth, and ensure their voices are central to decisions. Community Safety: Advocate for stronger community policing and safer public spaces for families. Fair Funding: Fight for Devonport-Takapuna’s fair share of Auckland Council’s budget. Sports & Facilities: Upgrade parks, sports grounds, and community centres to strengthen local life.
My position on key topics
Transport
I believe in finding a balance between all travel methods so everyone can move safely and efficiently. I’ll support well-maintained roads, reliable public transport, and safer walking and cycling connections. By investing in a mix of transport options, we can reduce congestion, improve accessibility, and make it easier for families, youth, and older residents to get around our community.
Water
Managing water in our area is about keeping residents safe, protecting our local beaches and streams, and making sure our neighbourhoods are prepared for heavy rain and flooding. As a local board member, I’ll support practical solutions like upgrading stormwater systems, improving wastewater management, and working with our community on water conservation. I want people in my community to trust that their water is clean, reliable, and cared for now and for future generations.
Built environment
It is important to find the right balance between progress and preserving what makes the North Shore unique, without losing the heritage and character that define our community.
Natural environment
I'm not afraid to get my hands dirty and will back up local clean-ups. I'll also push for smarter stormwater systems and coastal protections so our marine life, parks and neighbourhoods stay healthy and resilient for the future.
Community
I want to build strong, connected communities by listening to residents, supporting youth and cultural events, and creating spaces where people feel they belong. I’ll push for fair funding to maintain and upgrade parks, sports grounds, libraries, and community centres, making them safe and accessible. I’ll also advocate for stronger community policing and local initiatives that improve wellbeing, keep families connected, and protect the character of our neighbourhoods.
Economic and cultural development
Boosting the economy by continuing to support local businesses while encouraging others to shop local. Equally important is protecting and celebrating Māori heritage by honouring mana whenua, supporting te reo Māori, and safeguarding sites of significance will build pride, attract visitors, and connect future generations to our whenua.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I believe the best way forward is by working closely and respectfully with local iwi, ensuring their voices are central in decision-making. My priority is to advocate alongside iwi for outcomes that protect taonga, strengthen cultural identity, and deliver shared community benefits. Whether it’s managing growth, supporting recovery from storms, or planning for the future, I see partnership with mana whenua as essential to building a fair, resilient, and connected Auckland.
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.