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
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'
Why I want to be elected
As a proud Pacific person, I bring lived experience, governance expertise, and a passion for inclusive leadership grounded in Indigenous knowledge, sustainability, and equity. I chair Seed 2 Harvest, serve on Community Waitākere and Auckland Conservation Boards, and contribute to Pacific-led leadership initiatives. With a Master’s in Indigenous Knowledge and as a PhD candidate, I aim to weave community wisdom, academic insight, and action for responsive, connected local boards.
My key skills and qualities
Chair of Seed 2 Harvest and member of multiple boards, with 27+ years’ experience in youth and community development. Master’s in Indigenous Knowledge, PhD candidate, and Auckland Conservation Board member. Skilled in governance, cultural competency, collaboration, and policy insight, I champion inclusive, sustainable, and future-focused leadership that reflects diverse voices and delivers meaningful outcomes for all communities.
My top three key issues
My leadership is grounded in community, cultural values, and sustainability. I champion inclusive communities, ensuring Māori, Pacific, and youth voices are heard; environmental protection through kaitiakitanga and climate resilience; and safe, connected neighbourhoods with better transport, parks, and facilities. With governance roles including Seed 2 Harvest Chair and Auckland Conservation Board member, I bring collaborative, culturally grounded leadership for positive change.
My position on key topics
Transport
I will champion safe, people-centred streets, reliable public transport, and accessible walking and cycling paths for everyone. I support fair investment across all neighbourhoods, ensuring communities have a voice in planning. With a focus on sustainability, I will promote low-carbon options and green streetscapes, creating a connected, inclusive, and climate-conscious transport network that links people, supports local life, and protects our environment.
Water
Water is a taonga. I will advocate for protecting water quality, ensuring equitable supply, upgrading stormwater systems, and improving wastewater treatment. Guided by Te Mana o te Wai, I support Māori leadership, nature-based solutions, and sustainable infrastructure to prepare for climate change and population growth—treating water as a living system to be respected, protected, and cared for collectively.
Built environment
Auckland’s growth must balance housing and infrastructure needs with cultural, environmental, and historical protection. I support affordable, quality housing, climate-resilient infrastructure, and thoughtful urban design that reflects community voices. Guided by equity and kaitiakitanga, I will champion sustainable, inclusive development that protects heritage and builds thriving, connected neighbourhoods for future generations.
Natural environment
Our environment is foundational to health, identity, and climate resilience. As an Auckland Conservation Board member and Indigenous knowledge PhD candidate, I champion community-led, culturally grounded protection of green spaces, waterways, and biodiversity. I support local partnerships, urban tree cover, pest management, and climate-smart planning, ensuring Auckland’s natural environment is restored, respected, and resilient for future generations.
Community
Strong communities are built on trust, connection, and belonging. With 27+ years supporting whānau, youth, and grassroots groups, I will champion community-led solutions, inclusive spaces, youth and intergenerational wellbeing, and stronger local services. I support accessible facilities, cultural events, and partnerships that empower communities to lead, ensuring Henderson–Massey is vibrant, connected, and a place where everyone can thrive.
Economic and cultural development
A thriving local economy reflects the strengths, talents, and culture of its people. I will support local businesses, social enterprises, and creative industries, create inclusive pathways for rangatahi and underserved communities, and champion heritage, language, and cultural expression. By investing in resilient, community-driven economic growth, Henderson–Massey can be a vibrant, innovative, and equitable place where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Auckland’s future must uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi and deliver meaningful Māori outcomes. I will champion embedded Māori leadership across housing, environment, business, and culture, support responsible Port of Auckland management, ethical growth of the Future Fund, and climate-resilient storm recovery. My focus is inclusive, values-driven decision-making that builds equity, sustainability, and long-term wellbeing for all Auckland communities.
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.