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
John comes from a family with a strong record of service to the people of Howick. From his business background, John became interested in local body affairs and was elected onto the Howick Local Board in 2010. The historic character and heritage of Howick is significant, and John advocates for that connection to be recognised across the Auckland region. John believes that outstanding recreational and sporting facilities should be available and he continues to support several projects in current development for Howick. He understands that access to quality parks, reserves and walkways is essential for people's well-being. John is passionate about the environment and works as a conservation volunteer, attends tree planting days, and is a keen supporter of the well utilised Mangemangeroa reserve. A vote for John Spiller is a vote for continuity, experience, integrity and dedication to the Howick community. Vote #weknowhowick, Burns, Spiller and White.
Why I want to be elected
If re-elected, I will continue to work diligently as an advocate for my community's expressed needs and concerns. I can be easily contacted and am happy to meet with residents and community groups to get a better understanding of local issues. I will attend local board workshops and meetings on a regular basis to learn of, and provide feedback on, council plans and projects. I will liaise with community groups and organisations and continue to play an active part in local projects like planting.
My key skills and qualities
Experience, as a current elected member. Excellent knowledge of the Howick local board area. Established relationships with many community groups. Reliable attendance at local board workshops and meetings. Availability for site and resident meetings. Long-term commitment to the Howick Ward area. Strong wish for Howick to retain its historical identity and amenity values. Passion for the environment and concern around climate change impacts. Advocacy for coastal erosion protection and repair.
My top three key issues
Maintaining our parks, reserves and coastal bush margins, and increasing the tree canopy cover in Howick. With smaller section sizes and increased atmospheric pollution, fresh air and exercise are increasingly important, so additional safe and enhanced recreational opportunities need to be provided for residents. Howick's unique heritage has already been compromised to some degree as a result of the AUP so we must collectively oppose any planning changes that may impact on these amenity values.
My position on key topics
Transport
I support the Eastern Busway project however I feel that there needs to be better feeder services to maximise its potential once it's in operation. It would be very desirable to have a Park and Ride facility in the Botany area or close by to encourage people to use the busway more. More work should be done on this by AT.
Water
It's fairly obvious to most people that Auckland's wastewater and stormwater infrastructure is currently struggling to cope with demand. Further housing intensification will stress this more, so a solution is long overdue. Auckland needs a more co-ordinated approach between Watercare and Auckland Council planners, and a temporary halt on intensification in some areas seems necessary until answers are found.
Built environment
It's unfortunate that the government has compelled council to develop intensification plans without seemingly understanding that Auckland's infrastructure is crumbling so badly. Intensification was originally flagged for busy transport corridors, and near railway and bus stations and interchanges, but the AUP, along with PC 78, has permitted a number of less than desirable projects to be completed. A re-think is needed.
Natural environment
Increase Auckland's tree canopy coverage, on both private and public land. Encourage and support more community groups and individual property owners to partner with council to achieve this outcome. Increase funding for both plant and animal pest control to support the wonderful work that Park Rangers and volunteers do in this space. Initiate more projects to protect endangered species, particularly in Regional Parks Maintain a region wide fund for coastal erosion control and maintenance.
Community
Continue to provide financial support to local groups through the Community Grants programme. Advocate for a more regular inspection programme of community buildings and facilitates so repair and maintenance costs can be reduced. Continue to provide facilities for youth space as young people are the region's future.
Economic and cultural development
Continue financial support East Auckland Tourism, the Howick Historical Village, and other respected local organisations who all play a part in keeping the Howick Ward vibrant, exciting and a desirable place to both live and visit. Continue to support the Howick Business Association and Business East Tamaki through the BID programme.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
These are things that are more driven by the governing body than at local board level. The Howick Local Board has embraced Te Kete Rukuruku, a programme to work with mana whenua to co-name some places of significance, with both Te Reo and English names once signage is due for replacement.
Candidate's supporting links
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