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The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Lofty NED
Candidate for Kaipātiki Local Board
Independent
Candidate statement
I m running because I care about our city, tomorrow's generations as well as today's. I am a proud North Shore local, having lived in Devonport for over 20 years, and I believe in rolling up my sleeves to get things done. With a strong background in Community development, environmental sustainability, and grassroots organizing, I bring a fresh and energetic perspective to local issues. I am committed to strengthening community engagement and would like to see more help and support services for our elderly kaumatua and our youth who are falling through the cracks. Let us prioritise our environment in all that we do. More green spaces and planting, clean air and water. Our local board requires a strong Te Ao Maori perspective and this is something I bring, along with strong relationships and a professional approach.
Why I want to be elected
I will uphold Community voice and Community-led processes. Champion programs and initiatives that support our kaumatua/ senior citizens, and youth development, especially those at risk. I will advocate for a climate-conscious Kaipatiki, ensuring that we are proactive in combating climate change and act swiftly, particularly when residents' lives and homes are at risk. I stand for having true partnerships with mana whenua and mataawaka, Meaningful outcomes, and adherence to Māori perspectives.
My key skills and qualities
My key skills include community development, community health, public engagement, strategic planning, environmental sustainability, project management, communication, networking, advocacy, negotiation, budget awareness, and resource management. Key qualities: I am inclusive, honest, transparent, vision-driven, resilient, optimistic, energetic, committed, approachable, supportive, collaborative, accountable, adaptable,determined, creative, empathetic, compassionate, responsible, and passionate. .
My top three key issues
1. People-First, Community-Led Leadership. The best decisions come from listening to locals and supporting grassroots solutions. 2. Kaumātua/Seniors support & Youth empowerment. Our Kaumātua deserve respect, dignity, connection, access to services that help them stay active, valued, and socially connected. Our youth, especially those facing hardship or limited opportunities, need safe places to grow, learn, and thrive. 3. Climate Action - Protect the places we love and future generations.
My position on key topics
Transport
Frequent, reliable buses: Shorter wait times, especially on feeder routes connecting to ferry terminals and Northern Busway stations. Bus priority lanes: Convert select road lanes to dedicated bus lanes where congestion is worst. Ferry integration: Improve bus–ferry connections at Birkenhead and Beach Haven wharves.
Water
The candidate has chosen not to provide a response.
Built environment
The candidate has chosen not to provide a response.
Natural environment
Bush & coastal reserves: Strengthen protection of Le Roys Bush, Eskdale Reserve, and Kaipātiki’s coastal margins. Expand buffer zones with new planting. Urban ngahere (forest): Aim for a 30% canopy cover target — plant street trees, pocket parks, and food forests in every neighbourhood. Stream daylighting: Where creeks are piped underground (e.g. Kaipātiki Creek tributaries), bring them back to the surface for healthier ecosystems. Community kaitiakitanga: Resource volunteer groups like Pest
Community
1. Connect with our community.
Economic and cultural development
Economic grow intertwined with a celebraton of our culture and heritage. Support local businesses with affordable spaces, training, digital tools, and buy-local campaigns. Town centres will host regular markets, arts events, and festivals that attract customers and celebrate diversity. Heritage buildings and Māori cultural sites will be protected and adaptively reused for community and commercial purposes. Kaipātiki will become a hub for green jobs, cultural tourism, and entrepreneurship.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Partner with mana whenua in decision-making, embed kaitiakitanga, manaakitanga, and whakapapa in all projects, and invest in rangatahi leadership. Support papakāinga housing, marae upgrades, shared cultural hubs, and festivals that celebrate Māori identity. Key wāhi tapu, pā sites, and taonga will be protected for future generations. By co-designing with Māori communities, Kaipātiki will grow sustainably, respectfully, and inclusively — ensuring that Māori outcomes are not an afterthought.
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.