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
For 61 years Manurewa has been my home, where for 44 years I have served as a Police Officer. I own a local gym and am a current Local Board member with extensive experience in policy and decision-making. I've successfully advocated for fairer funding that fosters the development of local businesses, youth, disabled people, elderly, our vulnerable community, sports clubs, enabling free sports fees for under 12's, environmental help, dedicated Animal Management officers, upgrading our parks and community assets, and the establishment of a community hub. I'm dedicated to continuing the work already started, ensuring safer neighbourhoods, town centres, public transport, weekly rubbish collections, and prompt responses for essential services, footpath, roading repairs, tagging, noise complaints, illegal parking. Having completed 113 marathons, I see things through. I've a deep appreciation for Manurewa and its diversity. Together we can thrive. Two Council votes Joseph Allan, Cunningham-Marino. Eight Local Board votes #LoveManurewa.
Why I want to be elected
For too long Manurewa has been treated like the poor cousin when funding was allocated by Council. With the equable funding that I helped secure, missed opportunities across our community can be addressed. Sports club renewals, community group support, crime prevention, more money for youth, the disabled, the elderly, the list goes on. With #LoveManurewa, I will fight to ensure funds are used fairly and evenly across Manurewa. Time for #LoveManurewa to take the full board. Time for Change!
My key skills and qualities
I have had extensive governance experience at the Local Board level having served three terms. I understand budgets, financial management, and how decisions at the Governing Body are made. I have a track record of supporting community feedback, voting with residents, and not against them. I am accountable to you, and will serve with transparency and accountability. I own my own business, so know how important it is to ensure our small businesses are supported to build Manurewa's economy.
My top three key issues
#LoveManurewa will prioritise maintaining existing assets to avoid demolitions like Tadmor Hall. This year’s budget boost, won through fairer funding championed by Joseph Allan when Board Chair, was a chance to invest more in maintenance — but it was missed in favour of new initiatives. We will work with Auckland Council to access regional budgets, deliver better outcomes for Manurewa, address roaming dogs, improve transport options and support your choice for weekly rubbish collections.
My position on key topics
Transport
#LoveManurewa will push for more funding and decision-making for Local Boards with the restructure of Auckland Transport, delivering safety and maintenance that meet local needs. Fix broken footpaths, set sensible speed limits, and improve safety around schools. Upgrade roads, signs, and lights, promote walking and cycling, add accessible carparks in high-density areas, curb roaming dogs, and improve lighting near stations, bus stops, and alleyways.
Water
#LoveManurewa backs protecting water quality, supply, and resilience. We will continue the Puhinui Stream Regeneration Project to restore wetlands and treat stormwater before it reaches the Manukau Harbour. This work reduces flood risk and creates an active-mode natural pathway linking The Gardens and Hillpark to Wirihana and Manukau City. These open spaces provide valued amenities in dense areas while serving as vital flood protection. We will advocate for funding to continue this work.
Built environment
#LoveManurewa supports urban growth that’s well-connected, with reliable, direct public transport so people can reach work or leisure quickly without long waits or multiple transfers. We oppose developments and intensification in flood prone areas. We will back housing and infrastructure that fit local needs, protect heritage, and create vibrant, walkable communities where amenities, green spaces, and transport links are integrated and accessible for quality living in a growing Auckland.
Natural environment
#LoveManurewa will provide strong leadership on climate action, fund local waste minimisation and support community-led resilience planning. Promote water efficiency, reduce food waste and emissions, and improve home insulation. Protect waterways, harbours, beaches, and streams. Support emergency preparedness, pest and weed management, and integrate risk reduction, readiness, response, and recovery across the community.
Community
#LoveManurewa will provide stronger advocacy needed to bring forward Growth funding of $4.2M, obtained for the Clendon Reserve by Joseph Allan when Chair. Upgrade playgrounds based on community priorities, and continue free pool access to Goldcard holders, supervising adults and disabled people. Support events, sports for all children, youth spaces to belong, community gardens, urban farms, local hubs, and programmes that keep seniors connected and supported.
Economic and cultural development
#LoveManurewa will work with the Town Centre Manager to deliver strong economic plans, including funding for safety initiatives and opposing new off-licence liquor or vaping stores. Support local jobs through council procurement and business associations, prioritising youth employment. Promote skills training and qualification access. Encourage diverse local businesses and maintain a visible police presence in shopping areas.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
#LoveManurewa upholds Te Tiriti o Waitangi and strong partnerships with mana whenua. We back Ara Kōtui so southern Iwi voices shape local decisions. Grounded in whanaungatanga, we value ties with Iwi, Mataawaka and Manurewa Marae. We support Māori-led solutions, rangatahi leadership and whānau-focused communities. We’ll advocate for housing, transport and jobs that reflect Manurewa’s identity and foster belonging.
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.