Ngā kaitono poari ā-rohe 2025Local board candidates 2025

Howick Local Board (Botany Subdivision)

ACT Local

Candidate statement

Botany has always been part of my story. Now it’s my time to give something back. I understand what our community is facing: families stretched by rising costs, small businesses working hard to stay afloat, and young people looking for support and direction. Our Local Board should be a strong advocate for Botany, one that listens, spends wisely within its areas of responsibility. I bring global leadership experience in crisis response, infrastructure, hospitality, and operations, and I was honoured to be recognised among the top Managing Directors in the Middle East. By voting for me as an ACT Local candidate you know exactly what you’re going to get: advocacy for well‑maintained parks and community facilities, supporting local events and initiatives that strengthen our economy, and create opportunities for our youth. If you want to see common sense back around the Local Board table, please give me one of your votes.

Howick Local Board (Botany Subdivision)

Independent

Candidate statement

I'm standing to serve my community. I love living in Botany at the heart of East Auckland. With nearly 20 years of business improvement experience, I've worked in large, complex organisations eliminating waste, improving delivery and cutting through bureaucracy. I'm a member of NZ Institute of Directors, with community, commercial, and council experience. I've worked hard as the Chairperson of the Local Board, providing leadership through significant challenges leading to rewarding successes. We've progressed the Flat Bush Library and Community Centre; delivered Te Taiwhanga Taiohi Youth Space; improved transparency by opening our workshops; supported Eastern Busway while opposing Burswood diversion. But there's more to do: improving communication and transparency; upgrading facilities to ensure they're fit for purpose; creating safer streets especially around schools; responding to population growth. I'll continue to be a strong advocate for our community, working collaboratively with other representatives to deliver for Botany. www.damianlight.co.nz

Howick Local Board (Botany Subdivision)

Practical not Political

Candidate statement

It's been my privilege to serve Botany on the Local Board since 2017, bringing practical, grassroots solutions that strengthen our community. I seek re-election to continue to protect our community assets, manage the budget prudently, and do the basics well. I have raised my family locally for 21 years, working in executive non-profit leadership, supported schools, youth development, cultural relations, and governance as a Trustee of my children's school board. Together with fellow Local Board members, we have delivered projects that matter: safer transport near schools, upgrading playgrounds and council facilities, the Botany youth space, expanded library facilities, and industrial waste programmes. Representing the Board with the Business Association, I champion local businesses and youth employment. I oppose the sale of public reserves and vigilantly keep Auckland Transport accountable and transparent. I humbly ask for your vote. Please vote visit www.votebotany.org. Mike Turinsky - Practical, not Political.

Howick Local Board (Botany Subdivision)

Candidate statement

Believing in the power of the community to drive positive change. Focused on promoting cultural diversity, addressing homelessness, and empowering youth to reach their full potential Passionate about harnessing the energy and creativity to addressing the crime rate with youths in the community.