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-Papakura has been my home, where for 44 years I have proudly served as a local Police Officer. I'm a local business owner and a current Local Board member with 15 years of governance experience gaining extensive knowledge in policy and decision-making. I have a strong sense of commitment to those I serve. I would push for a ban on fireworks for animal welfare, stronger enforcement of bylaws, keeping traffic moving, funding for greener neighbourhoods, weekly rubbish collections, better infrastructure and public spaces. You deserve a voice in shaping our community and I'll work to make sure it's heard. Keeping rates affordable, supporting community groups and clubs, protecting our environment, encouraging business growth and ensuring the safety of your family are all at the heart of my commitment. A strong voice giving you back control. Vote #LoveManurewa #LovePapakura for Local Board. Two Council votes Joseph Allan, Cunningham-Marino.
Why I want to be elected
I wants to see an end to missed opportunities that have cost Manurewa-Papakura millions in road and footpath upgrades. I care about animal welfare and will advocate to ban fireworks except for public displays. I will fight to secure every dollar possible for our infrastructure needs; Ōpaheke Sports Park, Waiata Shores to Wattle Downs footbridge, Clendon Reserve and the Puhinui Stream Regeneration Project. Time for Change!
My key skills and qualities
I have had extensive governance experience at the Local Board level having served 12 years. 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 our local economy.
My top three key issues
I will fight to secure our fair share of regional funding, ending years of deferrals while central Auckland projects take priority. I will push to complete projects like Ōpaheke Park and the Puhinui Stream Regeneration. I will advocate for greater investment in local assets before they fall into disrepair. Safer streets, cleaner neighbourhoods, better transport, and weekly rubbish collections will be core priorities for a stronger, more connected Manurewa-Papakura.
My position on key topics
Transport
I 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
I back protecting water quality, supply, and resilience. I will push to complete Ōpaheke Park and continue the Puhinui Stream Regeneration Project, restoring wetlands and treating stormwater before it reaches the Manukau Harbour. These projects reduce flood risk, create active-mode natural pathways linking local communities, and provide valued open spaces in dense areas while serving as vital flood protection. I will advocate for funding to keep this work moving.
Built environment
I support 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. I oppose developments and intensification in flood prone areas. I 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
I 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
I will work closely with Manurewa-Papakura Local Boards and Chairs, providing strong support at the council table. I will reach out to neighbouring southern boards for a greater understanding of issues and joint advocacy opportunities to secure an equitable share of funding and investment. I will draw on the aspirations and visions within the Local Board Plans prepared in consultation with the community. I will listen, learn and support the delivery of outcomes.
Economic and cultural development
I will work with the Town Centre Managers 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
I uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi and strong partnerships with mana whenua. I back Ara Kōtui so southern Iwi voices shape local decisions. I values ties with Iwi, Mataawaka and Local Marae. I support Māori-led solutions, rangatahi leadership and whānau-focused communities.
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.