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
Raised in the Wairoa subdivision, I have a deep appreciation for the values, people and environment that make our community unique. As a dedicated educator, environmental advocate and online educational content creator, I bring strong local insight and dedicated community service to the Franklin Local Board. With over 20 years' experience as a secondary school teacher, I have inspired thousands of students across our community. My geography-focused digital educational content has reached a global audience of over 41,000 subscribers, helping learners around the world engage with environmental and civic issues. I am committed to practical, fiscally responsible leadership that ensures our infrastructure keeps pace with growth while protecting the natural environment. I believe in transparent decision-making and smart investment that delivers real value for our community. If elected, I will champion improved infrastructure, sustainable development and strong local representation. Vote Darron Gedge - for trusted, reliable, local representation.
Why I want to be elected
I want to be elected to represent the people of Wairoa with integrity, transparency, and commitment. Having grown up in the area, I care deeply about the wellbeing of our community and the future of our local environment. I believe in practical, fiscally responsible leadership that ensures infrastructure keeps pace with growth, while preserving what makes our community unique. I’m standing to be a strong, reliable voice for Wairoa on the Franklin Local Board.
My key skills and qualities
I bring over 20 years’ experience as a secondary school teacher, with strong skills in communication, listening, and community engagement. I’m also an educational content creator, reaching over 42,000 global subscribers with geography and environmental resources. Raised in Maraetai, I bring local insight and a deep commitment to our community. I’m practical, dependable, and focused on achieving results through transparent, well-informed decision-making.
My top three key issues
1. Infrastructure that keeps pace with growth. Our roads, transport, and essential services must be improved to meet the needs of a growing community without losing our rural character. 2. Sustainable development and environmental protection I’ll advocate for development that respects our natural environment, protects coastal and rural areas, and supports a liveable future for the next generation. 3. Transparent, fiscally responsible decision-making. Ratepayers deserve clear, honest leadership.
My position on key topics
Transport
Personal vehicles remain essential for many in Franklin, so I support upgrading key roads like Whitford–Maraetai Road for safety and efficiency. I also back better rural bus services and making full use of the Pine Harbour ferry as a smart, reliable transport option. Safer walking and cycling routes near schools and villages will improve safety, health, and choice. Everyone deserves practical, balanced transport options—by car, bus, ferry, bike, or on foot.
Water
60% of Auckland’s water comes from the Hunua Ranges in our district, so protecting this source is vital. I support investing in resilient infrastructure to ensure clean, reliable water. Effective stormwater and wastewater management is essential to protect waterways and public health. Transparent planning and community engagement will help meet Auckland’s water needs sustainably for the future.
Built environment
I support smart, sustainable development that balances growth with protecting our environment and heritage. Housing must be affordable and well-planned to meet community needs. Infrastructure should keep pace with growth to ensure safe, connected, and resilient neighbourhoods. I’m committed to preserving Wairoa’s unique character while promoting responsible development that benefits current and future residents.
Natural environment
I support protecting Auckland’s natural spaces by preserving native habitats, regional parks, and our unique birdlife. I back planting native species and pest control, working closely with the community. I believe practical environmental stewardship means sensible, balanced approaches to resilience and sustainability that reflect our community’s priorities and needs. I’m committed to working with locals to safeguard our environment for future generations.
Community
I’ll support the community by backing local services and great community facilities like Te Puru Park and events like the Clevedon markets that bring people together. Listening to residents and working with local groups will help us improve wellbeing and keep Franklin’s unique character strong.
Economic and cultural development
I’m committed to supporting local businesses by encouraging practical solutions and reducing unnecessary barriers where possible. I also value promoting Franklin’s unique cultural heritage and the potential for cultural tourism to benefit our community. I’ll listen to local voices and work with partners to help create opportunities for sustainable economic growth that respects our community’s identity.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I’m committed to supporting ongoing storm recovery, especially in flood-prone areas like Clevedon, by working with the community and council on better flood management. Delivering positive Māori outcomes means respectful partnerships and listening to iwi. I support the Auckland Future Fund as a way to provide the council with additional income for long-term community projects and infrastructure.
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.