Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Jack COLLINS
Candidate for Howick Local Board (Pakuranga Subdivision)
C&R - Communities and Residents
Candidate statement
I'm passionate about Pakuranga maintaining its vibrant, connected, and proud community. With strong roots here and a deep commitment to unity, I'm focused on helping our neighbourhood thrive. While challenges like traffic congestion, safety concerns, and disconnection exist, I see these as opportunities for change. I'm committed to safer streets, re-energising engagement, supporting local events, and ensuring Auckland Transport is accountable to Pakuranga. I've grown up here, attended local schools, served six years on the Howick Youth Council, and remain active through Botany Crime Watch Patrol. With over 60 years of family history in Pakuranga, I understand what makes this place special - and what it needs to grow. Together, we can build a future where Pakuranga is a great place to live, work and play. Vote Jack Collins, Bruce Kendall, Sarah Kavanagh and all C&R Candidates.
Why I want to be elected
With the board’s growth to 11 seats, I’ll ensure discussions are efficient and focused. I’m committed to attending all meetings in person where possible, to ensure Pakuranga is represented to the best of my ability. I’m active in my community through volunteer roles such as Crime Watch Patrol and will pass on local issues that matter. I’ll engage youth about civic duty, respond to all enquiries, and attend events. I stand for transparency, no wasteful spending, and real value for ratepayers.
My key skills and qualities
With a 60-year family connection to Pakuranga and having lived here all my life, I’m committed to serving our community. I bring experience from the Howick Youth Council and manage a local swim school serving over 1,000 families. This has strengthened my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. I’m passionate, adaptable, and dedicated to ensuring youth are involved and Pakuranga thrives through this time of growth.
My top three key issues
Transport on Pakuranga Road must be a priority - finishing the busway on time, ensuring efficient Reeves Road flyover light phasing, adding parking, and easing traffic at hotspots like Bucklands to Pakuranga Highway. Keep weekly rubbish collection, stop illegal dumping, and improve water quality in the Tāmaki Estuary. Build safer, more connected communities with Youth Involvement by celebrating culture, supporting local businesses, fenced parks, diverse playgrounds, and accessible facilities.
My position on key topics
Transport
East Auckland traffic needs fixing - Ensure an efficient light phasing at Reeves Road Flyover, less delays, and safer hotspots like Fisher Parade. Public transport must be on time, with better links and express options. Footpaths must be safe and accessible for all, including people with disabilities. Let’s invest in smart, efficient transport options, including safe, connected cycleways that don’t disrupt traffic or pedestrians.
Water
Our Tāmaki Estuary is polluted. Clean-ups help but won’t solve it alone. We need real-time sensors to detect issues early, stronger action on illegal dumping, and better education and signage around fishing. As East Auckland grows, we must future-proof our stormwater systems. Our water networks are old, overloaded, and breaking down - we need better monitoring, stronger advocacy, and urgent upgrades to protect our environment.
Built environment
Auckland needs more housing, but it must be smart and sustainable. In Pakuranga, rapid intensification has lacked planning - no off-street parking, poor infrastructure, and rising congestion have made once-safe streets unsafe. Narrow roads need parking solutions, strong public transport links, and planning that considers school capacity, sewage, and services. Growth should strengthen, not diminish, the quality and safety of our neighbourhoods.
Natural environment
Water quality needs urgent attention with smart solutions like sensors to detect pollution. We must keep weekly rubbish collection and crack down on illegal dumping. More education about our environment is essential. Support moth planting competitions and introduce new initiatives to combat weeds. Use native plants for shade and to reduce grass mowing. Above all, let’s keep our streets and waterways clean and healthy.
Community
We need smarter ways to reach all ages with advertising to promote cultural, food, and environment events that build a strong community. Support for neighbourhood groups, Howick Youth Council, and Pest-Free Howick must continue. Pakuranga’s community facilities need modern upgrades to serve all ages and cultures. Playground designs should be cost-effective and safe. Better education on local activities and groups will boost community connection.
Economic and cultural development
Local businesses in Pakuranga are struggling. We must pressure Pakuranga Plaza to share their 10-year plan so council services, and local businesses can prepare. Better promotion of events and tourism is key. Pakuranga’s diverse cultures deserve celebration, and its unique historic sites need ongoing protection. Supporting groups like East Auckland Tourism will help showcase and grow our vibrant community for generations.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Council should retain the Port of Auckland to support efficient imports and lower transport costs for all Aucklanders. The Future Fund must be protected and managed wisely to deliver strong returns - funding key infrastructure like the Flat Bush community facility to ease pressure on Lloyd Elsmore, and creating a reserve to support a more prosperous Auckland. Council must also actively seek input from mana whenua and Māori communities, ensuring their views are heard and respected.
Candidate's supporting links
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