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
A current Local Board member and former Deputy Chair, Katrina seeks re-election to continue serving the community she proudly calls home. Having served our community for over a decade, Katrina brings experience advocating and delivering for our community, stopping wasteful spending and bureaucracy. A strong advocate for financial accountability across Council, Katrina champions value for ratepayers, quality facilities and services. As a child cancer survivor, Katrina volunteers across the health, disability and cancer support sectors. She serves as President of the Auckland Amputee Society, director of the Amputee Federation NZ, Deputy Chairperson of MECOSS, and a local Specialist Teacher of complex needs students. Katrina is committed to supporting our most vulnerable. A member of NZ institute of Directors, Katrina holds numerous qualifications including Master's in Public Policy, Specialist Teaching, Educational Leadership and Management; ensuring informed, evidence-based decision making on the Board. Vote Katrina Bungard - for trusted, experienced, local representation.
Why I want to be elected
I am standing for re-election because I am deeply committed to ensuring our community remains a great place to live, work, and raise families. With 12 years of experience on the Howick Local Board, including as Deputy Chair, I have a proven record of delivering practical, community-focused outcomes while holding Council accountable for responsible spending. I want to continue advocating for quality facilities, accessible public spaces, and services that reflect our community’s needs.
My key skills and qualities
I bring 12 years of proven governance experience on the Howick Local Board and former Counties Manukau District Health Board, alongside a professional background in education leadership. My key skills include strategic decision-making, financial oversight, and the ability to balance fiscal responsibility with delivering quality community outcomes. I hold Masters degrees in public policy & educational leadership, and post graduate qualifications in management and specialist teaching.
My top three key issues
Fiscal Responsibility & Value – Ensuring prudent financial management, reducing wasteful spending, and delivering quality outcomes that provide real value for ratepayers. Transport & Infrastructure – Advocating for reliable, safe, and efficient transport connections, and well-maintained infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing community. Community-Centred Services & Facilities – Protecting and enhancing local amenities, parks, and programmes that foster strong community connections.
My position on key topics
Transport
My priority is to ensure our transport network is safe, reliable, and accessible for all. For roads, this means timely maintenance, safety upgrades, and traffic flow improvements to reduce congestion. Roads need to be usable to allow for the fact that many people rely on their vehicles and are unable to use public transport for their transport needs. In public transport, I will advocate for frequent, affordable, and well-connected services that meet the needs of commuters, students and seniors.
Water
Auckland’s water must be managed effectively, with appropriate infrastructure to support development. I support protecting and improving water quality through investment in modern infrastructure, effective stormwater management, and measures to reduce pollution entering our waterways. Our water supply must be secure, resilient to climate change, and managed to avoid waste through responsible use and ongoing efficiency improvements.
Built environment
Auckland’s growth must be well-planned, balancing the need for more housing and infrastructure with protecting the character and heritage of our communities. I support quality development where appropriate that delivers affordable, well-designed housing alongside the infrastructure, transport links, and public spaces residents need. Growth should be sustainable, with environmental protection and climate resilience built into planning. We need quality growth and infrastructure where appropriate.
Natural environment
I am committed to protecting and enhancing Auckland’s natural spaces so they can be enjoyed by future generations. Building climate resilience is essential. This means restoring and maintaining our parks, beaches, coastline and reserves; controlling pests and supporting community-led conservation projects. I will advocate for policies that strengthen biodiversity, protect native habitats, improve water quality & waterways & develop sustainable urban planning with appropriate infrastructure.
Community
I believe strong, connected communities are built through inclusive decision-making, quality facilities, and services that reflect local needs. This means core services are a key priority and must come first. I will advocate for well-maintained parks, libraries, and community centres, alongside programmes that encourage participation in sport, arts, and cultural activities. Supporting initiatives that promote safety, accessibility, and social connection are also key to improving wellbeing.
Economic and cultural development
My vision is for a thriving local economy where businesses, community groups, and cultural organisations work together to create opportunities and attract visitors. I will support initiatives that help local businesses grow, encourage investment, and create sustainable employment. Promoting our cultural heritage is central to this by celebrating our diverse communities and protecting historic sites. By connecting economic growth with our unique culture we can strengthen our local economy.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I am committed to strengthening partnerships across our community. The Port of Auckland must be managed responsibly to ensure it operates efficiently, minimises environmental impacts, and delivers fair returns to Aucklanders. I support the careful growth of the Auckland Future Fund to provide long term sustainable investment.
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.