Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Prashant BELWALKAR
Candidate for Howick Local Board (Flat Bush Subdivision)
C&R - Communities and Residents
Candidate statement
I'm standing for Flat Bush to help our fast-growing, diverse community thrive as a connected, safe and future-ready place to live. With over 20 years in community development, stakeholder engagement, and governance, I've worked alongside iwi, service providers, and local organisations to deliver practical, people-focused results. As President of the Migrant Heritage Charitable Trust and Garje Marathi NZ, and through decades of involvement in multicultural sport, youth mentoring, and community radio, I've built bridges across cultures. My approach is grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, equity, and inclusive collaboration. My priorities are clear: safer streets, vibrant public spaces, transport and infrastructure that keep pace with growth, and greater opportunities for youth and seniors. I'll advocate for transparent, value-for-money decisions and champion respectful, solutions-focused leadership. Flat Bush has potential. Together, we can shape a resilient, welcoming community where families succeed and diversity is celebrated. Vote Prashant Belwalkar and C&R
Why I want to be elected
I’m Prashant Belwalkar — a proven leader who delivers results. With over 20 years’ experience driving growth in business and empowering communities, I’ve led major cultural, sporting, and health initiatives that unite people and create opportunity. I bring governance expertise, financial discipline, and the vision to turn ideas into lasting impact. My mission is simple: build stronger, connected, and thriving communities for all in Flatbush area.
My key skills and qualities
Passionate community leader dedicated to empowering people and building inclusive networks. Skilled at uniting diverse voices, fostering trust, and creating opportunities for growth. Brings strategic vision, strong relationships, and hands-on experience in governance, projects, and cultural initiatives. Committed to making a positive, lasting impact through collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose. Flatbush needs a multicultural, go getter candidate who has global experience.
My top three key issues
Community infrastructure like library, roading, parking, leisure centres are one the top priorities in the Flatbush area. Illegal dumping is another issue as well as roads and transport connectivity is another issue close to my heart. Rates is another issue that I would like to tackle wherein a serious stock is taken about where, how and why are the dollars spent. Flatbush being a new development area, there is opportunity to tackle these key issues differently from what has been historic trend.
My position on key topics
Transport
Public transport is key to development this includes Bus, Rail, Ferry and personal vehicles. Focus would be to enhance the use of public transport and AT is doing an excellent job with Eastern Highway to connect the Flatbush area. However, there needs to be long term planning is increasing the diversity and load management capacity to move away people for personal transport usage. Development of business hubs closer to the region will also alleviate the issue. Safety and public use a priority.
Water
Recent incidents have highlighted the issues with stormwater management. Need a more robust and long term viable and reuse options need to be seriously considered. Increased density housing will impact supply and waste water. Current statistics show that in the coming years there will be pressure on both sides and this will lead to budgetary constraints. Planning for that eventuality needs to be done from today. Not after it has reached crisis point. Water is an issue, if unattended.
Built environment
Auckland’s growth strategy focuses on compact, hazard-aware development, boosted by Unitary Plan upzoning. Major infrastructure projects—CRL, Eastern Busway, Central Interceptor, electrified rail—support housing and urban regeneration. Heritage overlays protect historic, cultural, and natural sites, guiding design while balancing development with preservation. However, these have skewed implementation and sometimes adverse impact in new development areas. Growth in these areas has to be managed.
Natural environment
It is imperative to strengthen policies for habitat protection, sustainable development, and biodiversity offsets. Promote innovative approaches like rooftop gardens, rewilding, and smart ecological monitoring. Protection and enhanced Auckland’s natural spaces by restoring native habitats, controlling pests, and connecting green corridors. Boost climate resilience through urban forests, wetlands, and green infrastructure. Engage communities via citizen science, education, and awareness programs.
Community
I plan to strengthen engagement via community networks, local partnerships, and responsive feedback channels to ensure services meet residents’ needs. This can be achieved by building strong, connected communities. By fostering inclusive spaces, supporting local events, and encouraging volunteerism. Improve services and facilities through accessible, well-maintained parks, libraries, and community centers. Enhance wellbeing with programs for youth, seniors, and health initiatives and diversity.
Economic and cultural development
Foster partnerships between businesses, communities, and creative sectors to strengthen the local economy while preserving and sharing Auckland’s unique cultural identity. Celebrate cultural heritage through festivals, arts programs, and tourism initiatives that highlight diversity. Boost economic growth by supporting local businesses with grants, training, and digital tools. Promote innovation hubs and sustainable industries to create jobs. Flatbush is blessed with diversity and that is a tool.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Maori development is key to regional success. Deliver Māori outcomes by partnering with iwi in decision-making, supporting cultural initiatives, and ensuring equitable access to resources. Manage the Port sustainably, balancing trade, environmental protection, and community impact. Grow the Auckland Future Fund through strategic investments in infrastructure, innovation, and green projects. Support storm recovery with rapid response, resilient infrastructure, and community-led rebuilding program
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.