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The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Pamela Joy TIPA
Candidate for Hibiscus and Bays Local Board (Hibiscus Coast Subdivision)
Candidate statement
As a long-standing resident I will unashamedly be your 'community' candidate ensuring that facilities for young families, youth, elderly and recreational opportunities for all are not overlooked. I also want to ensure our beautiful natural assets are preserved or enhanced for future generations. But as a former business and political journalist for a national agricultural newspaper, I am fully aware of the need to keep costs down, to provide decent infrastructure and how vibrant businesses contribute to livable communities. It's a balancing act. My association with the Coast stems back to the late 1980s and I worked as a journalist and editor in the area for many years. I raised family here and am now a grandmother. I also reported on councils throughout Auckland so I am well versed in the workings of both local and national government. I have championed many community issues and will continue to do so.
Why I want to be elected
My objective will be to provide mature, stable and independent representation which balances community wants and aspirations within realistic operational and financial objectives. A priority at this time is to curb the rate rises while ensuring the Hibiscus Coast is getting its fair share with rates raised here being spent locally. Community facilities, wastewater and transport systems are a priority with growth, while trying to ensure our environment, seas and marine life are protected.
My key skills and qualities
I worked for 40 years as a journalist, editor and managing editor in Auckland, Hibiscus Coast and Rodney. I reported on elected bodies and dealt with politicians at regional and national level. This has given me the ability to listen and evaluate all sides to an issue, cut through the verbage of reports and plans to get to the nitty-gritty and to ask the right questions. I have no vested interests and would carefully weigh community feedback and work through a consensus approach where possible.
My top three key issues
1) Helping to curb excessive rate rises as the latest round has been exhorbitant and households are hurting with the cost of living. 2) Development of community facilities (within financial restraints) as the Hibiscus Coast is under-served. Vibrant community spaces and facilities are good for all ages but also boost the local economy - which means more local jobs. 3) Working to retain the Gulf Harbour ferry and other transport needs will require thoughtful planning with Penlink completion.
My position on key topics
Transport
Retention and enhancement (including weekend services) of the Gulf Harbour ferry and assessing the best public transport options and traffic flows with the completion of Penlink. Looking at the best options for free flow of traffic especially at Silverdale. More connectivity around the Hibiscus Coast, whether public transport, walkways, cycleways or better traffic flow.
Water
Wastewater considerations are a priority with the Hibiscus Coast at capacity. The release of sewage into the beaches with any heavy rainfall is something that even 15 years ago was considered a travesty and should not be accepted an inevitable. However board members should not be seeking to reinvent the wheel. Long term plans are already in place and elected members should work with staff to ensure planning is steered towards the right priorities.
Built environment
Whangaparaoa is at capacity unless more is done for infrastructure, public transport and roading. In general, Auckland-wide, I favour intensification around transport hubs as long as it is done without creating leaky building, eye-sore apartment blocks. More character housing is needed throughout Auckland, but of more modest size, with the trend towards smaller households. Much more needs to be done to preserve and repurpose 'heritage' buildings. Australia has done this more successfully.
Natural environment
The Hibiscus Coast area should focus on protecting its marine environment and its fish and shellfish stocks as that is our significant natural environment. Lobbying is needed to central government to strengthen the protection rules and more enforcement. The board should be working with all those involved in Hauraki Gulf protection. The Coast also has a major role in bird protection with Tiri and Shakepear. Mitigation now needs to be a major factor in climate resilience as the horse has bolted.
Community
Whangaparaoa needs improvement in community facilities - there is a shortage of meeting space. More work needed on enhancement of public outdoor spaces to beautify the area and provide more passive recreational opportunities. The local board could promote better communications systems for the community. An example is there is a wealth of abilities in the population for volunteering opportunities. The board could help promote a better connect between potential volunteers and jobs that need doing.
Economic and cultural development
The Hibiscus Coast needs to work on an economic vision which taps into its marine environment and creates an attractive 'vibe'. I have seen many small business start and fail on the Coast and perhaps more help and guidance is needed because some do not seem to understand the market. The area has long relied on its beautiful beaches but has not done enough to enhance its public spaces and create an 'atmosphere'. This will attract people to spend in the area and therefore create jobs.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Storm recovery, particularly for the beaches, is a major issue for the Hibiscus Coast with the increasing intensity of weather events. We need to be guided by expert advice. Maori outcomes could only be delivered in consultation with Maori - I wouldn't presume to speak for them - but it would be nice to see more events at our local marae.
Candidate's supporting links
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