Ngā kaitono poari ā-rohe 2025Local board candidates 2025

Franklin Local Board (Pukekohe Subdivision)

Team Franklin

Candidate statement

I was born and raised in Franklin, have farmed here for 44 years, am married to Gael and we have a 23-year-old daughter. We run a beef-fattening farm in Franklin in addition to having commercial interests in Pukekohe. I am a member of the Franklin Local Board, currently Deputy Chair, Local board representative on the Pukekohe Business Association, Vice chair Rural Advisory Panel, Vice Chair Manukau Forum and President of Auckland Federated Farmers. I believe that a strong rural and commercial voice is vital to Franklin, and my aspirations will continue to include, within Team Franklin: rural viability and sustainability; the environment; encouraging employment; rural and commercial business growth in our area; well-planned future infrastructure and development relative to the proposed growth within the Unitary Plan for Franklin, advancing new arterial routes - especially in the future northern Pukekohe ring road sections, walking and cycling trails.

Franklin Local Board (Pukekohe Subdivision)

Team Franklin

Candidate statement

It’s been an absolute privilege to represent the people of Pukekohe on the Franklin Local Board these past three years. I’ve loved the job of listening to people, helping out where I can, and making sure your concerns are listened to and addressed around the council table. Whether it’s something big or small, I’ve always tried to be approachable and do what’s right for our community. I’ll continue to fight to keep our rural character protected & push for better roads and transport. I’m standing again because I want to build on what I have started and will continue advocating for you & for things that matter to us all here in Pukekohe, so Vote for me, Andrew Kay – Team Franklin.

Franklin Local Board (Pukekohe Subdivision)

Independent

Candidate statement

Franklin deserves leaders who listen, lead with integrity, and deliver real results. People across our community want safer streets, smarter transport, and homes supported by the right infrastructure and green space. They expect council to be transparent, responsible, and make every dollar count. I'm standing to help make that happen. I live in Karaka with my young family and care deeply about the people who call Franklin home. With a background in finance and leadership roles across health, utilities and community sectors, I bring strong governance and a practical understanding of how to get things done. As Deputy CEO of a national charity, I know how to deliver impact while managing resources wisely. My priorities: Infrastructure that supports a thriving, growing population; Access to quality public services, delivered locally; Real value for ratepayers through efficient, effective services.

Franklin Local Board (Pukekohe Subdivision)

Team Franklin

Candidate statement

Mālō e lelei, my name is Lesieli and I’m standing for the Franklin Local Board. My husband and I have proudly called Pukekohe home for the past 15 years, raising our four beautiful children here. As a Tongan woman with experience in not-for-profit leadership, education, business, and tech, I offer a grounded, community-focused voice with a strong commitment to service. For the past seven years, I’ve led an organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for children -supporting academic achievement, school attendance, and overall wellbeing. As a parent of a young family, I understand how vital safety, opportunity, and community connection are to our daily lives. I love the diversity of our community and I’m passionate about seeing it grow stronger. I’m committed to advocating for community safety, infrastructure that supports growth, and continued investment in the spaces that bring us together - like local buildings, parks, libraries, and community events.

Franklin Local Board (Pukekohe Subdivision)

Candidate statement

After 30 years in Auckland, I’ve seen too many Council decisions that are frustrating and out of touch. Yes, we need rules to protect our environment and safety, but Council has become too big, too costly, and too focused on bureaucracy over results. I stand for less Council, lower rates and good management. As a Franklin-based IT business owner, I believe in practical solutions and accountability. My goal is to uphold and protect residents’ rights and ensure Council serves people, not the system. My priorities: End revenue-driven compliance such as unfair traffic rules and overregulation; Get the basics right - roads, water, rubbish, and local facilities; Support community services - libraries, sports facilities, and local events. I want a smaller, more efficient Council that delivers real value to ratepayers. If you share that vision, I’d be grateful to have your vote. Let’s take the first step together.

Franklin Local Board (Pukekohe Subdivision)

Team Franklin

Candidate statement

I'm running for the Franklin Local Board because I believe our region deserves strong, practical leadership rooted in real-world experience. As a local business owner based in Pukekohe, I’ve built a company from the ground up, created local jobs, contributed to our community’s growth and now raise my own young family here. But I’ve also seen firsthand the challenges faced by families, small businesses, and everyday residents trying to thrive here. I want to help ensure Franklin continues to be a place where people can raise their families, grow their businesses, and enjoy a great quality of life. My focus is on smart growth, better support for locals, and a more connected, future-ready community. I'm not a career politician. I'm a local who cares deeply about where we live, and I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work. Let’s build a better Franklin, together.