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Paul YOUNG

Paul YOUNG

Candidate for Howick Ward

Independent

+6421954088

Candidate statement

Former Auckland Councillor and Counties Manukau DHB Member I've lived in East Auckland for 36 years and proudly served as a strong advocate for our diverse and growing community. On Council, I helped secured $200 million for the Eastern Busway and protected $80 million for new pools, libraries, and a community centre in Flat Bush and Ormiston. I have a strong track record of working hard for local residents, delivering results, and standing up for what matters. I'm standing again to be your voice for better transport, safer streets, and a more inclusive Auckland. Make Auckland Young Again Vote Paul Young

Why I want to be elected

I am standing again because East Auckland needs a strong voice. Having lived here over 30 years, I know the challenges: traffic congestion, rising costs, public safety, and delayed infrastructure. With experience as Councillor and Health Board member, I will push for better transport, safer communities, transparent spending, and real diversity on Council. My goal is simple: a safer, fairer, more liveable Auckland for all.

My key skills and qualities

I will bring proven governance experience as a former Auckland Councillor and District Health Board member, with strong skills in financial oversight, infrastructure planning, and community advocacy. With 5 years of public service, over 30 years running my own businesses in New Zealand, and deep roots in East Auckland, I understand both governance and the real world challenges. I am committed to accountability, transparency, and representing diverse voices.

My top three key issues

My top priorities are transport, community safety, and financial accountability. East Auckland urgently needs better transport to reduce congestion. Safety matters because everyone deserves to feel secure at home and in public. Strong financial oversight is vital to stop waste and ensure ratepayers’ money delivers real results. I am passionate because these issues directly affect daily life and the future of our families.

My position on key topics

  • Transport

    My focus is strong oversight to ensure East Auckland projects are delivered on time. I will push for the busway to be completed without further delay and advocate for the Botany to Airport rapid transit link to start sooner. Better bus and ferry services, safe walking and cycling, and smarter planning are also essential. I want practical solutions that reduce congestion and make daily travel safer and easier.

  • Water

    Auckland’s water must be safe, reliable, and free from waste or misuse. I support strong oversight to prevent past failures and corruption from happening again. My focus is protecting supply and quality, upgrading stormwater to reduce flooding, and ensuring wastewater is treated to safeguard health and environment. Every dollar must be transparent and invested wisely for a sustainable future.

  • Built environment

    Urban growth must be well planned, with transport at the core. Without proper roads, public transport, and connectivity, new housing and infrastructure only add congestion. I support smart planning that links development with timely transport delivery, protects heritage, and ensures quality infrastructure. A well-planned transport network is the foundation for a liveable, sustainable Auckland.

  • Natural environment

    I will protect Auckland’s natural spaces by restoring habitats, cleaning waterways, and reducing pollution. To build climate resilience we need better stormwater, greener transport, and smart planning. With strong oversight and community support, we can safeguard biodiversity and secure a sustainable future.

  • Community

    I will strengthen communities by improving local services, facilities, and wellbeing. With Auckland’s rapid growth nearly one-third of residents are Asian immigrants. Therefore I will advocate for an Asian and Ethnic Advisory Committee to ensure diverse voices are heard. I will also support inclusive events, better community spaces, and programs that connect residents and foster belonging.

  • Economic and cultural development

    I aim to boost Auckland’s growth by supporting local businesses, promoting cultural heritage, and strengthening sister city economic ties. With over a third of NZ’s population and contributing 40%+ of GDP, Auckland deserves more central government support. I will advocate for fair funding, help local enterprises thrive, and showcase our diverse cultures to build a stronger, sustainable economy.

  • Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori

    I will support Māori outcomes through partnership and consultation, ensuring their voice shapes decisions. I advocate responsible management of the Port of Auckland, prudent growth of the Auckland Future Fund, and effective storm recovery planning. Transparency, accountability, and long-term planning are key to delivering benefits for Māori and all Aucklanders.

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.

Disclaimer

The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.