Ngā kaitono poari ā-rohe 2025Local board candidates 2025

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

I’m running for the Henderson-Massey Local Board because I care deeply about the future of our community. I want to see practical progress - not more talk. That means better infrastructure, safer streets, and public spaces we’re proud of. I bring a clear-headed, strategic approach to decision-making, but I also listen. Whether it’s families, young people, seniors, or small business owners, I believe everyone deserves a say in shaping what comes next. I’ll advocate for smarter transport, balanced housing growth, and better digital access - things that make everyday life easier. It’s time to cut through the noise and focus on what really matters: transparent leadership, fair representation, and results we can all benefit from. Henderson-Massey is an amazing growing community. Let’s make sure it grows in the right way - together.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Labour

Candidate statement

I have lived and worked in west Auckland most of my life serving as MP for Te Atatu for 15 years and as a government minister. Residents will recall I worked hard for all my constituents regardless of their personal politics. As Chair of the local board I have continued to do that. My priorities are to continue to be receptive to community concerns and ensure residents are not neglected in the provision of Council services. Many residents share concerns about the decline of the Henderson CBD. The main street has great potential but badly needs re-development. I will continue to work to revitalise Henderson. Other important issues for me are addressing the problems created by housing intensification including traffic congestion and street parking problems. AT has been the Council agency I have had the most complaints about. AT needs to be more receptive to local concerns.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

I am Justice of Peace, educated at Auckland University. I am Malaysian Chinese from Hong Kong; married to Audrey with three adult children; Co-founder of Waitakere Ethnic Board, the Lantern Festival and former Waitakere City Cultural Ambassador. I have been serving the community and Local Government for over 24 years. I am committed to working to transparency and sustainability in Council's operation, ensuring that it is more responsive to the core needs of our community. I believe Local Authorities exist only for the convenience of the residents and ratepayers and that rates must be adjusted to an affordable level and be fair to all. I am a former Waitakere City Councillor and current Member of the Henderson-Massey Local Board. I advocate inclusiveness, public transport, more green spaces, sustainable neighbourhoods, and affordable housing. I would like to ensure that the Council is governed by the interests of many, not the few.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Labour

Candidate statement

I love my West Auckland community. I’m proud to raise my young family here and I’m committed to making Henderson-Massey the best place to live, work and grow up in. There’s a lot of hard work that needs doing to improve our communities and I’m proud of what I’ve delivered in my first term as a local board member – from having rubbish bins reinstated and making streets safer for our kids, to upgrading our parks and driving initiatives that bring people together to solve problems and deliver results. I hold Auckland Council to account and advocate for what we all need to live well. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back and make a difference, and with your support I’ll continue to work hard and fight for a better deal for Henderson-Massey. Please vote for Dan Collins and the Labour team. Email: dancollinslabour@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DanCollinsHendersonMassey IG: https://www.instagram.com/dan_collins_henderson_massey

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Candidate statement

Linda offers deep local knowledge, proven experience, and a genuine passion for serving our community. Linda has lived in West Auckland for decades and understands the unique needs of Henderson-Massey. Her track record in local and regional government shows she can deliver results, from improving public spaces and transport access to advocating for youth services and community safety. She listens, takes action, and works collaboratively to get things done. Linda is also a strong supporter of local businesses, environmental protection, and inclusive community development. Her practical, down-to-earth leadership style ensures that real issues are addressed with real solutions. With her experience and commitment, Linda is well-placed to help shape a vibrant, safe, and connected future for our local board area. Linda Cooper for Henderson-Massey – she's a voice we can trust. Vote Linda Cooper

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

Harbourview-Orangihina Park is a very special place of Auckland-wide environmental significance for its rare wetland and foreshore native birdlife. Traditionally the People's Park of Te Atatu Peninsula, it is also a recreational open space for residents of increasingly intensified Henderson-Massey. These irreplaceable social and natural values must be protected in perpetuity. No more park land development can be permitted beyond the proposed Te Atatu marae, already intended for commercial and residential purposes. Marae property development must be strictly confined within its surveyed zone and fenced boundaries. Entities associated with the marae must not exercise kaitiaki control or guardianship within the rest of the People's Park. No land anywhere within the park should ever be permanently alienated by grant or sale to any party. Our community must ensure that the People's Park remains managed under Auckland Council's exclusive control for everyone to enjoy equally. If you agree, vote for Michael Coote.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

ACT Local

Candidate statement

Residents have been let down by Henderson-Massey Local Board with neglected town centres, unkept and unsafe streets, and a chokehold on local business. It’s time to give our Local Board a wakeup call and focus on what matters in Henderson-Massey. Living in Te Atatu for the last 9 years, I understand the issues facing our local community. My background as a local business owner and board member of 2 local youth clubs means I have the governance experience needed to deliver practical solutions for our area. By voting for me as an ACT Local candidate, you know what you are going to get: I will revitalise our town centres, work with local police and patrols to prevent crime on our streets, and advocate against unnecessary red tape on local businesses. If you want to see common sense back on our local board, then please give me one of your votes.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

My name is Jacob Curran and I am excited to work alongside Ken Turner and Sunil Kaushal, and to represent WestWards. My primary focus is on pragmatic spending of rate payers dollars and accountability for those who we entrust to undertake and support us in our mission of making West Auckland great. Our focus areas in WestWards includes roading, infrastructure, and crime prevention. We want to lead a vision for West Auckland where residents can live work and play in a safe, positive environment. We want to lead a vision that empowers pride in our shared space as one community. This means providing the basics that residents need to go about their day with greater efficiency. Basics such as a clean space, having our local hubs and businesses easily accessible for shoppers and commuters, having the basic amenities, that we pay for, working the way they should. God bless.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Labour

Candidate statement

Kia Ora! Nihao! My name is Susan Diao. I’m a senior lecturer, Justice of the Peace, and long-time community advocate. As a migrant and proud resident of West Auckland, I understand the hopes and challenges of our diverse communities - from hardworking families and small business owners to young people and seniors. With over a decade of experience in education and public service, I’m passionate about improving public transport and infrastructure, supporting schools and youth programmes, promoting cultural inclusion, and strengthening local voices in decision-making. As a mother, educator, and long-term Westie, I’m committed to building a safer, more connected, and inclusive neighbourhood - where every family feels seen, heard, and supported. Let’s work together to help our community thrive - for everyone. Vote for me, my Labour colleagues for Local Board, Waitakere Licensing Trust and Shane Henderson and Jess Rose for Council.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

I am a small business owner born and raised in West Auckland. I have over a decade’s experience in governance and as a community and business advocate. I run community events like the Te Atatu Food Truck Fridays and have served on boards of the Te Whau Pathway Environment Trust, Don Oliver Youth Sport Foundation, Croatian Cultural Society and Te Atatu South Community Association. I’m someone who prefers making change rather than just talking about it. I bring an objective, analytical mind and the passion and experience to help build a thriving West Auckland. I will continue advocating for practical solutions to rising living costs through sensible budgeting, safer connected neighbourhoods, vibrant community and town centres, stronger local economies, better transport, improved infrastructure and environmental care. With a deep understanding of West Auckland's history and all its areas, I’m committed to its prosperous future economically, socially, and environmentally.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Labour

Candidate statement

My family and I have proudly called West Auckland home for twenty years. Through my work as an educator and former teacher at Rutherford College and other schools in Henderson and Massey, I’ve had the honour of helping local young people discover their potential and reach for their dreams. Every day, I’m inspired by the energy and hopes of the next generation. I’m closely connected to our community through sports, volunteering, and support for local charities. As your Deputy Chairperson of the Henderson Massey Local Board, I have championed opportunities for families and young people. My iwi are Ngā Puhi and Ngāti Whātua. I believe West Auckland deserves beautiful parks, safe streets, welcoming community spaces, and clean streams. I’m passionate about helping our small businesses succeed and grow. I promise always to listen and to stand up for you. Vote Will Flavell and Labour for the Henderson Massey Local Board.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Candidate statement

I am standing for the Henderson Massey Local Board. As a long-time resident of Henderson my passion and expertise is Community Development. I understand the unique strengths and challenges faced in West Auckland - from housing and transport to parks, community services, and climate resilience. As an academic and small business owner, I bring practical skills, a strong track record of integrity and a love for community. I currently serve on a few organisational boards and steering groups and believe in transparent decision-making, inclusive consultation, and sustainable planning that supports our growing and diverse population. If elected I look to advocate for key priorities within community services, environmental management and conservation, local planning and development, and good governance. Alongside advocating for the needs of Māori, Pacific and Ethnic groups. I will be accessible, accountable, and focused on building a vibrant, connected, and thriving community for everyone. 'Action with Integrity'

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Honoured to work alongside Ken Turner and Sunil Kaushal, to represent WestWards. With over 40 years of experience in government, I bring an in-depth understanding of policies and public sector procedures. My focus includes roading, infrastructure, and crime prevention. Everyone deserves to feel safe in our community. I'm adaptable, methodical, a lateral thinker, and proudly born and bred out West. Practical improvements matter. We need rubbish bins reinstated for community pride. Speed bumps should be reviewed and reduced where unnecessary, and all roads must be brought up to compliance - something we currently fall short on. Clear road markings and well-highlighted pedestrian crossings are essential. We must also reduce flood risks by clearing debris from streams. Local businesses and residents across all town centres deserve to feel safe and supported, our local businesses are the heart of our community. Together, let's make the West a better, safer place for everyone.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

Do you know the annual budget of the Henderson-Massey Local Board and the names of the members? Do you know where your rates are spent? I didn’t, and I have been here 20 years. I didn’t know about local boards and didn’t care. But I complain about the potholes, speed bumps, cycleways, wasteful artworks and lack of core services. But I don’t vote and let the gravy train chug on. I am an entrepreneur, filmmaker, broadcast journalist and political analyst. I promote NZ-India business relations, and my NGO serves ethnic communities. I was a bureaucrat for 14 years and I hold a Masters from Massey and a PgD from Victoria. I am stepping up, to speak up. Vote to stop the gravy train. (BTW, the budget is $54.4 million for 2025-26 and the board’s priority is to restore original Māori names and identify new Te Reo names for Henderson-Massey).

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

I am a husband, father of four, and proud Westie with a multicultural background. Like many of you, I want our community to thrive - safely, fairly, and with common sense at the core. I'm standing alongside Ken Turner and the WestWards Team because West Auckland deserves practical leadership that understands local issues. With a proven track record in governance across community, business, and licensing bodies, I will ask the right questions & deliver real outcomes. I've worked at the grassroots and around the decision-making table, bridging both worlds to get results that matter. We want better local services, weekly rubbish collection, more parks investment & keeping Speedway at Western Springs. We want real accountability, smarter council spending, & stronger local control. I'm committed to putting our community first. Vote Sunil Kaushal & the WestWards Team to get things done & a community first approach that delivers for West Auckland.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Labour

Candidate statement

Oscar Kightley is a proud West Aucklander with deep roots in the Henderson-Massey community. As an award-winning entertainer, Oscar has used his voice and platform to tell the stories of Aotearoa’s diverse communities for over 30 years. Born in Samoa and raised in New Zealand, he brings a unique perspective shaped by lived experience, cultural pride, and a commitment to social inclusion. Oscar is standing for the local board because he wants to give back to the place he calls home. He believes in strong, safe, and connected neighbourhoods where everyone has the chance to thrive. With a long-standing passion for youth development, community arts, and Pacific wellbeing, Oscar will be a fresh and trusted advocate for the people of Henderson-Massey. Let’s support a bold, community-first future – vote for Oscar and the rest of the Labour team for Henderson-Massey, the WLT, and Shane and Jess for Council.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Working with Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushal, and the WestWards team. Andy Liu has called West Auckland home for over two decades. A hardworking business owner, community leader, and proud Asian-New Zealander, he's built his life here, raising a family, creating jobs, and supporting others to do the same. Andy understands the real challenges facing locals because he has lived through them, from the rising cost of living to the frustration with council inaction. As president of two major community associations, Andy brings people together. Now he's stepping up to serve the wider community. Andy believes in the practical, no-nonsense leadership that Henderson Massey deserves. He's committed to upgrading broken infrastructure, fixing drainage, and improving rubbish collection. He wants parks that families can enjoy, better funding for local boards, and a council that actually listens. This election, vote for Andy Liu, who understands West Auckland and delivers for it.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Labour

Candidate statement

Vote Brooke Loader for fairness, progress, and a vibrant future for the West. I'm a lawyer, small business owner and mum raising my whanau here in the place I love. I started out washing cars at my dad's caryard at 14, and seeing my mum support families through budgeting services. I've grown up with a deep commitment to working hard in service to the community. I've brought that dedication to serving you on the Local Board. I've delivered park and playground upgrades, backed better transport, and supported climate and environmental action. In tough times, people need access to parks and libraries, with strong community-led arts, sports and cultural events. My focus will be to protect your services, and promote local job growth through safe and thriving town centres. I love the West, and I'm ready to keep building a community we're proud to call home. Vote Labour. Vote Brooke Loader

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Labour

Candidate statement

Vincent has been dedicated to West Auckland since 1989. He is involved in governance, advocacy, and volunteer roles, including as Vice President of Waitakere Grey Power Association, Waitakere Ethnic Board member, community advocate for people with special needs and seniors. He is a radio talk host and a Justice of the Peace. He has held senior management roles and manages investment holdings. Vincent has an informed understanding of the issues, challenges and aspirations of West Auckland residents and their families. Vincent is committed to: Investing in modern and accessible community facilities; Promoting frequent and reliable public transport; Maintaining streets, parks and public spaces; Supporting grassroots cultural events; Backing local patrols and street lighting upgrades; Revitalising Henderson and growing local economy. Vincent will drive positive changes and better future for all in Henderson-Massey. It’s our home! Vote Vincent and the Labour team!

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Green Party

Candidate statement

I have been a local resident for almost two decades, and my children have grown up through the local schools and clubs. I am very familiar with the issues we face in Henderson-Massey, daily – the punishing commutes, the lack of local services and infrastructure, and the damage to our waterways and green spaces. We have made progress in Henderson-Massey, and many great community initiatives are working tirelessly, but we need to keep pushing. I want to put people and planet first, and help work for a better life for us here in Henderson-Massey: with more pleasant neighbourhoods that are easier to get around, great public transport, more going on in your local centres, more opportunities for our young people, thriving waterways and green spaces (let’s work to make the Whau and Te Wai o Pareira swimmable!), and a connected and resilient community that looks after each other.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

Experienced, hard-working, approachable and committed to my community. For too long West Auckland has received less than the supercity promised. We deserve our fair share and access to the city's prosperity and opportunities. I know how local government operates and I know how we can make it work for everyone. I have eighteen years’ experience in business ownership and operation. With two terms governing on the local board, my determination and strong consensus leadership style has enabled me to deliver. Through my council and community involvement, I understand the issues we face. I will back initiatives that contribute to West Auckland’s economy, rapid transit investment along the Northwestern, environmental stewardship and investment in desperately needed infrastructure. I don’t take sides, I don’t belong to any political party, I am totally focused on what is best for the West community. Vote for me and I’ll fight for more for our community!

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Candidate statement

I have lived in West Auckland my whole life, and I love that I see trees and the Opanuku Stream from my window. I want to help shape a stronger, greener future for our community. I believe in development that puts people first. On the local board, that means advocating to Auckland Transport for safer streets, more public transport, and better walking and cycling connections. It also means supporting choices that keep people close to the things that matter: work, school, shops, and green spaces. I also care deeply about protecting and restoring our local environment. We already have some great initiatives around tree planting and our waterways that deserve continued council support. Henderson-Massey is growing because we balance between town and countryside. I believe we can grow in a way that keeps that balance. If elected, I will work hard to represent our community and help it flourish.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

A Cleaner, Smarter Future for Henderson-Massey I'm proud to stand alongside Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushal, and the Westwards team - because Henderson-Massey deserves bold, practical leadership that delivers real results. I work in the waste management sector right here in the West. Like many of you, I'm frustrated by the growing problem of illegal dumping - on our streets, in our drains, and polluting our streams. Enough is enough. We need action, not excuses. It might be goodbye to bin tags, but what we need now is a future-focused approach: reliable, frequent waste collection services that keep our communities clean and healthy. I'm excited to join Ken and Sunil in offering a truly representative voice - one that speaks up for the concerns of you, your family, and our wider community. Let's clean up our streets, our waterways, and our local government. Don't let this opportunity go to waste.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Working with Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushal and the Westwards team, I'm standing for Henderson-Massey to bring fresh energy and results-driven focus. I care about a community where residents and business owners feel safe, connected and heard, holding confidence that elected members are making decisions in our best interests; not being swayed by central government agendas. Every ratepayers dollar needs to count and be spent on the brilliant basics - safer streets, less gridlock on roads, bins emptied regularly, parks, playgrounds and pools we can be proud of and reviving town centres to attract a wide variety of new businesses. I live in Te Atatū Peninsula with my husband and our 9-year old son. We're local business owners who love living, working and supporting locally. I'll bring strong leadership, sound decision making, a collaborative mindset, along with the time, energy, and commitment to deliver results for our community. Learn more, www.westwards.co.nz

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Empowering West Auckland. Take Charge of Our Streets and Our Future! With over 15 years in community development, I'm a listener, a connector, and a fierce advocate for our neighbourhoods. Together with Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushal, and the Westwards team, I'm committed to delivering real, lasting change. My Priorities: Food Sovereignty - Support community gardens, urban farms and local markets to provide fresh, culturally appropriate food; Emergency Preparedness - Strengthen community-led resilience to keep us safe in time of crisis; Community Funding - Unlock accessible, transparent funding for grassroots initiatives; Road Infrastructure - Improve roads around high-density housing to match growth and reduce congestion; Water Quality - Ensure clean, safe water for every household; Smarter Traffic Calming - Replace harsh speed bumps with speed cushions for safer, smoother streets. Change starts with us. Let's build a stronger, safer, and more connected West Auckland - together.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Candidate statement

I’m 31 years old, a small business owner and a father of two - My daughter will be 10 and my son 8 when it comes time to vote. Someone has to do it, I’m putting my hand up because I care about our community and I’m tired of seeing decisions made that leave us all shaking our heads wondering, 'Who thought that was a good idea?' My goal is simple - to ask that hard question 'why' and push back on the wasteful, out-of-touch, or downright silly ideas that seem to keep slipping through council. Common sense needs a seat at the table, and I’ll make sure it has one.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Candidate statement

As a proud Westie for 23 years, and immigrant from Cape Town South Africa, I’m running for local council to bring diversity and greater representation to our community’s decision-making. I am not seeking notoriety, but believe that the African and other ethnic voices deserve a seat at the table. The challenges facing us including a failing public transport system and lack of safe play spaces for children demand real action and concern. My experience as the owner and volunteer at South Africa NZ Live Radio, volunteer at Waitakere Ethnic board, shows my commitment to connecting and uplifting people. Growing up without a voice under Apartheid taught me to listen to, and advocate for, those not always seen or heard. If elected, I will work to make local government more transparent, accessible, and responsive so everyone, especially the vulnerable, feels supported and empowered in our West Auckland community.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

I stand for Parliament with a heart grounded in Tika, Aroha, and service to all people of Aotearoa. I am here to make real change - to end homelessness, care for our poor and elderly, and uplift our Pepi, Tamaki and Whanau. I walk alongside our Rainbow Communities and all who seek justice, dignity and inclusion. I bring compassion, Humility into every decision. I honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and lead with courage, listening and heart.

Ko Tarakeha Te Maunga, Ko Hokianga Te Awa, Ko Aupōuri te Hapū, Ko Tumoana te Marae, Ko Nukuuwhitu te Rangatira, Ko Ngātokimatawhaora te Waka, Ko Denise Martin-Widdison toku Ingoa, Ko Lloyd Widdison tōkū hōa Tāne, Ko Beaudene, raua ko Miguel āku tama mātāmua, Ko Portia tōkū Pōtiki. Kei Konei au mō te huringa - hei whakakore i te Koretake o tē Kāinga, te pōharatanga, me te tiaki i ō tātou kaumatua, pepe me ngā Whānau katoa. Ka Tū au mō ngā hapori Āniwaniwa, me te hunga e rapu ana i te Manaakitanga, te Ngakau Tapatahi me te tōkeke. Ka Whakahonore au, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ā kā ārahi mā te Whakarongo, te maia me Te Ngākau pono.

Henderson-Massey Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Re-elect Luke Wilson - Safer Streets. Smarter Spending. Stronger Community. I'm Luke Wilson. On the local board, I redirected millions from wasteful projects into safety upgrades and local parks. I fought for real fixes, not more red tape. West Auckland is facing real challenges: housing, crime, traffic congestion, and inadequate infrastructure. I'm a long-time Te Atatū local, retired Police officer, and proud to have been mentored by the late Ross Dallow. His example taught me the value of service, discipline, and standing up for your community. I bring that same practical, results-driven, and focused on locals approach. This term, I'll push to: Keep spending local, smart, and focused on affordability. Make our streets and parks safe again. Clean up town centres and support local businesses. Tackle crime and antisocial behaviour. Improve infrastructure and reduce flood risks. Vote Luke Wilson, working with Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushal and the WestWards team.