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
Since moving to Waiuku in 2019 I have watched Council inefficiency burden and frustrate local ratepayers and families. At 30 years of age, armed with a Master of Business and extensive IT experience, I have decided to put my hand up, driven by a genuine commitment to serve the community. I am standing for Rock The Vote NZ, and together we believe in common-sense policy, transparency, and practical solutions. Once elected, I will advocate on the public's behalf to push for a rates rise cap to the rate of inflation, as I believe Council must spend within its means. I will audit Local Board spending line by line, voting to eliminate waste and ensuring funds are used to make our roads safer, our parks cleaner and putting funds towards community projects that can truly make a difference. Tick Daymond Goulder-Horobin to back Waiuku.
Why I want to be elected
If elected to the Local Board, I will dedicate my time to serving the community. I will listen to people's concerns and use a combination of first principles and empathy to deliver results for the people of Waiuku. I will propose and develop common-sense bylaws that support the community, not control it. I will actively respond to public queries and ensure that local businesses are supported as effectively as possible by Auckland Council. I will be transparent, accountable, and results focused.
My key skills and qualities
My background includes a Master of Business in Economics from AUT and a Graduate Diploma in Data Analytics from MIT. These skills allow me to analyse complex issues, manage budgets responsibly, and make evidence-based decisions for our community. I know how to navigate council processes efficiently to get practical results for Waiuku as well as the Franklin Local Board area. I will use every tool available to find the best solutions and ensure clear, accountable representation for you.
My top three key issues
Advocating to councillors to keep rates affordable by capping rates rises to inflation and encouraging more sensible spending at the local board levels. Secure a stronger voice for Waiuku and Franklin, holding Auckland Council to account so our needs are not sidelined by the supercity. Fixing transport and core services in Waiuku by accelerating rural road safety upgrades, drainage, footpaths, and improving bus frequency for workers and families, especially during work travel hours.
My position on key topics
Transport
I will prioritise safe, well-maintained roads in Waiuku by consulting experts to identify cost-effective and high-quality repairs where needed. I will advocate for better bus links for Waiuku, especially during peak hours when people need to commute to/from work, ensuring that no one gets stranded if something goes wrong. Every dollar spent must deliver measurable safety, reliability, and time improvements. I will advocate for travel options that communities want and that offer clear value.
Water
I believe water should be fully managed by Auckland Council. I consider Waters Done Well to be Three Waters tried again, in my view. I oppose mandatory water fluoridation and believe it should be decided by the people who live in each area, not imposed by central government. Locally, we must renew pipes, fix leaks, and upgrade stormwater and wastewater infrastructure to reduce flooding and pollution. I will require transparent reporting so that ratepayers can see where every dollar goes.
Built environment
I support sensible growth that strengthens Waiuku and wider Franklin while protecting our rural land, farming, and heritage as much as anyone. However, I am concerned about the so-called “managed retreat” approach, which is included as an option in the Shoreline Adaptation Programme and is creeping into public policy. Property rights must be respected: private retreat should never be forced; council-led retreat should occur only with genuine community consent and full local input.
Natural environment
What is the purpose of life if we cannot enjoy the places where we live? I believe in sensible spending, which includes making sure that our natural spaces are safe, clean, tidy, and free from weeds and rubbish. This should be considered when Local Boards allocate funds. Our parks and beaches must be kept clean and accessible for everyone to enjoy. I oppose the use of 1080, but I will support planting, natural predator control, wetland restoration, and protecting our biodiversity.
Community
I will strengthen local services by scrutinising spending and prioritising funding at the Local Board level for projects that clearly and provably benefit residents. I will aim to enhance the communication and responsiveness of the Local Board and support upgrades to parks, playgrounds, libraries, and community facilities in the Franklin region. By collaborating with schools, sports clubs, and local groups, I will help foster a safe and strong community where people are connected and supported.
Economic and cultural development
Farmers are at the heart of Franklin’s contribution to Auckland’s economy. I will back our farmers, growers and small businesses by advocating for reliable freight links, fair rates and less red tape. I support early adoption of ethical AI and practical technology to cut costs and lift productivity for small businesses. I will revitalise Waiuku and Pukekohe with more weekly events and targeted tourism, and look at the possibility of expanding apprenticeships linking schools and local employers.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I will insist on transparent and efficient Council services that operate within their means to keep rates under control. In particular, rate increases should not exceed the rate of inflation, if they increase at all. I will honour the Treaty of Waitangi by treating all as equals in any decision-making if elected. I oppose the sale of Council assets, as I believe it weakens the Council's viability. I support the Auckland Future Fund as long as it provides genuine resilience for our community.
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.