Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Swanie NELSON
Candidate for Manukau Ward
Candidate statement
With two terms of experience on the local board, I bring proven governance knowledge and a deep understanding of how Council works. I’ve spent years actively involved in grassroots community and youth development initiatives across our ward and remain committed to advocating for real change led by the voices of our people. As a long-time Manukau resident and business owner, I understand the day-to-day challenges our communities and local enterprises face. I’m standing for Manukau Ward because I believe in strong local leadership, equity, and practical solutions to the issues that matter most - safer communities, thriving youth, better housing, and fair opportunities for all. I bring experience, integrity, and a genuine heart for service. It’s time for fresh leadership - bringing innovation, energy, and a modern approach to Council.
Why I want to be elected
If elected, I will champion the voices of our diverse South Auckland communities. I’ll work to strengthen local businesses, back grassroots initiatives, and push for better housing, transport, and youth opportunities. With experience on local boards, trust governance, and community-led projects, I’ll bring bold, practical leadership that puts people first. I’m committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and making sure council decisions reflect our unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations.
My key skills and qualities
Community leader with strong governance experience being a former local board member, I bring proven skills in grassroots development, strategic thinking, and inclusive engagement. I am a local business owner of 15 years and I’m committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and delivering practical outcomes for Manukau. Born and raised in this community, I bring lived experience, skilled experience, resilience, and authentic leadership.
My top three key issues
1. Public Safety & Community Wellbeing 2. Transport Equity & Accessibility 3. Fair Funding & Investment in Manukau I care deeply about safety because our whānau deserve to feel protected not just policed. I care about transport because our people shouldn’t be spending two hours and $10 just to get to work or school. And I care about fair investment because for too long, our communities have received less while needing more.
My position on key topics
Transport
As Manukau grows, we need a transport system that’s safe, accessible, affordable, and reflects the needs of our communities. My priorities are shaped by lived experience and the voices of everyday people navigating our roads, buses, footpaths, and cycleways. - Safer, well-maintained roads - Safer walking Infrastructure - Better connected & protected cycleways - More reliable & affordable public transport
Water
Water is a taonga — a vital resource that must be managed with care, equity, and long-term thinking. In South Auckland, we face the impacts of ageing infrastructure, flooding, and water inequality more than most. If elected, I will advocate for smarter, fairer, and climate-resilient water management across all systems.
Built environment
As Auckland continues to grow, we need urban development that is people-centred, not profit-driven. For too long, South Auckland has carried the weight of poor planning, underinvestment, and fast-tracked development that doesn’t reflect our needs or protect what matters.
Natural environment
- Focus on protecting our natural spaces - Focus on bio-diversity - Support more climate resilience investment - Support community action & zero waste kaupapa
Community
- Community led decision making - Invest in local facilities and services - Foster social connection & wellbeing - Strengthen partnerships - Encourage more key events and place making activities into our community
Economic and cultural development
Some of my ideas include: - Supporting local businesses by encouraging local procurement policies that prioritise South Auckland suppliers and social enterprises and work to reduce red tape and ensure council services are customer-friendly and responsive to the needs of diverse business owners. - Promote our local cultural heritage by supporting events, festivals, and markets that showcase our arts, crafts, food, and stories to build pride and attract visitors.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
- Deliver Maori outcomes: champion meaningful partnership with mana whenua, ensuring their voices guide decisions affecting land, water, and community wellbeing. Māori knowledge and tikanga must shape Council policies and projects. - Manage the Port of Auckland: Push for greater Council oversight and community involvement in port planning and operations. - Growing the Auckland Future fund: Call for clear reporting and fund use - Support storm recover: Prioristise repairs and upgrades
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.