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Bas WATSON

Bas WATSON

Candidate for 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.

Why I want to be elected

I’m passionate about supporting our local community and ensuring that ratepayers receive the quality services they deserve. Like many residents, I’ve grown increasingly frustrated with the rising costs and declining service levels from our council. I believe it’s time for a more accountable, transparent, and community-focused approach to local government. I want to make a positive difference by advocating for better value for money, more efficient service delivery and engagement with the people.

My key skills and qualities

With over 40 years of experience in the Information Technology industry, I bring a proven track record of leadership, innovation, and practical results. I understand what it takes to get things done efficiently and effectively. My guiding principles are simple: deliver value for money, do things right the first time, and minimise waste. Like you, I’ve seen firsthand the opportunities and challenges our city faces. I’m passionate about supporting smart growth and investing in infrastructure.

My top three key issues

I’m committed to: Delivering value for money for every ratepayer dollar spent Focusing council on core services—roads, transport, water, waste, and community infrastructure Cutting duplication and inefficiency across council agencies Driving a cultural change that treats ratepayers as customers who deserve performance, not excuses Leading the transition under the new RMA framework with urgency and strategic vision Auckland deserves better—and together, we can build it.

My position on key topics

  • Transport

    I believe in investing in infrastructure that meets people where they are—not where ideology says they should be. In Franklin, most people rely on their cars—for work, school, shopping, and everything in between. That’s not going to change overnight, and council policy needs to reflect that reality. That’s why I’m committed to making roads and parking a top priority in Franklin. Of course, we must get the basics right and that means backing the infrastructure people actually use every day.

  • Water

    Watercare currently delivers these services effectively across Auckland, with continuous efforts underway to identify and implement improvements

  • Built environment

    Every Aucklander who wants to build a new home deserves the backing of council to make it possible. For too long, council processes have worked against this, and a cultural shift is needed. Families should have the freedom and flexibility to build homes that help them thrive. With the central government’s reform of the RMA set to reduce cost and speed up delivery, council has an opportunity to embrace change and support a better future for housing in Auckland.

  • Natural environment

    I support council investment in sports grounds, clubs, facilities, and parks. At the same time, we must protect our city and countryside with firm controls on pollution and waste. Where appropriate, I support using both incentives and penalties — a carrot and stick approach.

  • Community

    I believe in supporting local libraries, event management, and community clubs that foster engagement and belonging. These investments not only enrich community life but also generate positive returns for Aucklanders and local businesses.

  • Economic and cultural development

    Council has an important leadership role in supporting local events and promotional activities that highlight local businesses and strengthen community engagement.

  • Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori

    I believe in equality of services and opportunity for all Aucklanders. Council must ensure that a long-term, stable dividend is delivered through Ports of Auckland and other revenue-generating assets. The Auckland Future Fund must also be carefully managed, with full accountability to the purposes for which it was established.

Candidate's supporting links

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Disclaimer

The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.