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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.
Melanie KENRICK
Candidate for Kaipātiki Local Board
Shore Action
Candidate statement
As a long-term resident of Kaipātiki and local board member since 2019, I am seeking re-election. My focus remains on getting things done, working collaboratively and making good decisions for the long-term future. With over ten years as a senior mental health nurse and experience in governance roles for disability and education charities, I bring leadership and attention to detail when representing Kaipātiki. As a member of the Institute of Directors, responsible governance, including financial accountability is a priority. I will advocate to ensure community spending delivers value. Over the past five years, I have supported investment in local sports facilities, our creative community, walking tracks, environmental restoration, and coastal preservation. I am committed to listening to community needs and working towards effective solutions. If elected for another term, I will continue working to achieve positive outcomes for Kaipatiki. Please support the Shore Action Team; #8TicksShoreAction; www.shoreaction.org.nz
Why I want to be elected
I’m standing for re-election to the Kaipātiki Local Board to continue delivering accountable, community leadership. I will advocate for improved sports facilities that are able to accommodate our growing population. Kaipātiki has extensive walkway connections and our coastal assets such as wharfs and boat ramps need to be properly maintained. I advocated for responsible spending, that ensures local rate payers can see value.
My key skills and qualities
I have over ten years' experience in governance, and six years serving on the Kaipatiki Local Board. As a member of the Institute of Directors, I have the expertise to ensure our investments are financially sustainable and deliver long-term value for the future. I’m deeply connected across Kaipātiki, and those relationships help me advocate strongly and genuinely reflect the views of our residents.
My top three key issues
- Pest-free initiatives: Kaipātiki’s extensive bush are treasured by our community. I support pest control efforts that protect native biodiversity. - Water quality protection: Safeguarding our freshwater streams and marine environments is essential. The Local Board can influence this by actively addressing sediment runoff and supporting initiatives that improve waterway health. - Prudent financial decisions: I advocate for responsible spending that delivers long-term value.
My position on key topics
Transport
I have established a respectful relationship with AT, and as a result have seen a number of local safety improvements such as speed calming on Hinemoa St. I want to work with AT to promote our ferry service. There have been numerous occasions over the last few years, that due to bad weather our ferry service becomes the only viable way of getting into the city. I want to work with other North Shore Local boards to ensure the second harbor crossing is prioritized.
Water
I’m happy with WaterCare's progress. There has been significant investment in upgrading our infrastructure, in order to develop long-term resilience. However, the resulting disruptions—particularly roadworks—can be frustrating for residents. While these are often unavoidable, I’d welcome more proactive communication to reduce the impact on our communities. I would like to see greater incentives for homeowners to retain and reuse stormwater on their properties
Built environment
Greater housing should be allowed in areas where there is sufficient infrastructure. There needs to be greater protection of special ecological areas and safeguarding of land identified as having stability issues. To ensure Auckland develops into a world class livable city we need both greater protection of our heritage housing and ensuring future housing has good quality design.
Natural environment
There should be greater investment into organizations such as pest free Kaipatiki and Kaipatiki Project. I also support more tree planting to improve our tree canopy cover. There are hundreds of streams within Kaipatiki many on private property. It is essential that we have organisations that relationship fosters stewardship for the environment.
Community
Ensure that our sports, cultural clubs, and community houses are well supported so they can help build a connected community. Support our libraries to continue offering the outreach to engage with all ages and and cultures within our community
Economic and cultural development
Support fiscal prudence and advocacy to keep rates low.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
There is a need within Kaipatiki to develop better relationship with Mana Whenua. Storm recovery remains an important issue for many within our community. Clear communication of choices is essential.
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.