Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Gemma MOFFAT
Candidate for Hibiscus and Bays Local Board (Hibiscus Coast Subdivision)
Coast Community
Candidate statement
I’m Gemma Moffat, fifth generation Orewa local. I am deeply committed to the Hibiscus Coast and the people who call it home. As a local teacher for over fifteen years alongside raising a young family, I have a deep understanding of our community’s past, its present, and its potential. I bring energy, compassion and a strong sense of service to this role. I’m a proud supporter of Orewa Surf Life Saving Club, and volunteer of the Silverdale Rugby Club. If elected, I want to increase bus station safety, deliver safer pedestrian routes, and back local business. With your support, I intend to be a representative who will ensure that we deliver key projects: retaining the Gulf Harbour ferry, delivering the Penlink Whangaparāoa bus station, and securing a positive outcome for the future of Orewa Beach. Vote for our Coast Community team, Jake Law, Nick Rado, and Gemma Moffat.
Why I want to be elected
I will listen to our community and work for a safe, connected, and thriving Hibiscus Coast. I’ll support local events, improve facilities, and make it easier to move around safely. I’ll back local business, protect our beaches and green spaces, and ensure decisions reflect our needs. I’ll be transparent, approachable, and committed to honouring our past while building a strong future for the place we all call home.
My key skills and qualities
As a fifth-generation Orewa local, I am deeply committed to the Hibiscus Coast and its people. With over fifteen years experience as a local teacher, alongside raising a young family, I have a strong understanding of the community’s past, present, and future. Known for my energy, compassion, and dedication, I bring proven skills in communication, problem-solving, and community connection to the role of local board member.
My top three key issues
I will be a strong voice for our community, focused on three key priorities: securing the long-term future of the Gulf Harbour ferry, delivering Penlink and the Whangaparāoa bus station to improve local transport, and safeguarding Orewa Beach by putting all protection options – including new, innovative solutions – back on the table to ensure this iconic coastline is preserved for future generations.
My position on key topics
Transport
I support safer roads, more reliable public transport, and better walking and cycling connections—especially in underserved coastal areas and new suburbs. Priorities include delivering the Penlink bus station and creating a safer, more accessible Hibiscus Coast bus station. Connection buses, better footpaths, and safer pedestrian access in needed areas like Hatfields Beach and Gulf Harbour will reduce traffic and improve access for all.
Water
Auckland’s water must be clean, secure, and resilient. We support upgrading stormwater systems, and better wastewater treatment to protect our environment and prevent flooding, especially in vulnerable areas such as low lying parts of Orewa, Manly and Stanmore Bay. Watercare must prioritise investment in the Hibiscus Coast to ensure that we no longer have pollution going into our streams and beaches. We must ensure development contributions from the Coast are going back into our infrastructure.
Built environment
Growing communities must be focused and well planned around transport links and town centres. New developments need supporting infrastructure to keep pace with growth. Ensure that new communities have developed parks and playgrounds. Develop the Millwater Butler Stoney Park that has been long delayed as a fast tracked priority. It’s important we protect our local character while enabling affordable homes and liveable neighbourhoods that reflect our unique coastal community.
Natural environment
Protect and restore local reserves, waterways, and green spaces. Support native planting, pest control, and climate-resilient projects like the wetland restoration project in Stanmore Bay. Our coastlines and parks must be preserved for future generations. Invest in community environmental organisations to deliver smarter and more affordable environmental outcomes. Support a pest free Hibiscus Coast and support specific environmental projects like the Weiti river restoration.
Community
I will strengthen community wellbeing with safer public spaces, better libraries and facilities, and more events and activities that bring people together. Support youth spaces, elder services, and neighbourhood groups that build connection and resilience. Invest wisely in community initiatives like the Men’s Shed, and the Youth Hauora Network that support young and old alike while delivering positive community outcomes.
Economic and cultural development
Champion local enterprise with economic development grants, and events that draw people to the Coast’s town centres. Recognize our unique local heritage as well as modern communities through food, events, and the arts. Ensure town centres are safer, and advocate to Auckland Transport to improve public transport links to business centres. Give direct liaison support to business associations to improve local business connection and efficiency.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Ensure that locally led civil defense shelters are active and prepared for emergencies. Provide clear communication about local decisions to all community stakeholders. Back organisations that deliver clear community benefits while making efficient use of resources. Deliver more affordable events and activities in our communities by utilizing trusted community organisations. Support the local community led marae Te Herenga Waka o Orewa as a cultural hub, delivering matariki and cultural events.
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.