Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Debbie BURROWS
Candidate for Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board (Maungakiekie Subdivision)
C&R - Communities and Residents
Candidate statement
Debbie Burrows: Safer Streets, Smarter Spending, Stronger Communities. Now in my third term as Deputy Chair of the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board, I bring over 20 years of senior management experience and 15 years in governance. A long-time Onehunga resident, former local business owner, and mum of two, with a much-loved family dog. I'm known for practical leadership and getting things done. I'm focused on strengthening neighbourhood safety, advocating for smarter infrastructure to support growth, and ensuring fiscal responsibility in council decision-making. Currently a Chair of Auckland's District Licensing Committee and I serve on governance boards in the youth justice and education sectors; supporting better outcomes for young people and communities through locally led, evidence-informed approaches. Our community deserves experienced, thoughtful leadership that listens, collaborates, and delivers. With a strategic mindset and a common-sense approach, I'm standing again to continue serving Maungakiekie-Tāmaki with integrity and action. Vote Debbie Burrows and C&R.
Why I want to be elected
Our community deserves experienced, thoughtful leadership that listens, collaborates, and delivers. With a strategic mindset and a common-sense approach, I'm standing again to continue serving Maungakiekie-Tāmaki with integrity and action.
My key skills and qualities
Now in my third term as Deputy Chair of the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board, I bring over 20 years of senior management experience and 15 years in governance. A long-time Onehunga resident, former local business owner, and mum of two—with a much-loved family dog. I'm known for practical leadership and getting things done.
My top three key issues
I’m focused on strengthening neighbourhood safety, advocating for smarter infrastructure to support growth, and ensuring fiscal responsibility in council decision-making.
My position on key topics
Transport
Prioritise practical, affordable transport options that reduce congestion and improve travel times. Invest in reliable public transport and safe walking and cycling links. Maintain and upgrade roads to support all users. Ensure projects deliver value for ratepayers and help families and businesses get where they need to go.
Water
Auckland needs reliable, future-proofed water infrastructure. We must safeguard supply and quality through timely upgrades and maintenance. Prioritise investment in modern stormwater and wastewater systems to reduce pollution and protect public health. Improve resilience through smarter infrastructure, including flood risk mitigation.
Built environment
Support well-planned growth that reflects community needs and protects neighbourhood character. Prioritise affordable, well-located housing connected to jobs and transport. Invest in infrastructure that keeps pace with development. Ensure heritage buildings and areas are respected and preserved as part of Auckland’s identity.
Natural environment
Protect and restore natural spaces through efficient, locally driven environmental services. Support practical, affordable action to enhance biodiversity and reduce emissions. Back local environmental initiatives with real outcomes—not just rhetoric or symbolic gestures. Invest in climate-resilient infrastructure to prevent flooding and protect green spaces.
Community
Keep local government truly local—accessible, responsive, and connected to the people it serves. Maintain and optimise community facilities, parks, and public spaces. Support events and initiatives that bring people together. Prioritise decisions that enhance wellbeing, strengthen belonging, and reflect the needs of all generations.
Economic and cultural development
Support local businesses by focusing council on core services, reducing red tape, and ensuring value for money. Invest in vibrant town centres, tourism, and events that drive local economic activity. Promote Auckland’s cultural heritage by celebrating local identity and supporting community-led initiatives.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Decisions made now must serve future generations. Keep local government local, inclusive, and focused on people before politics. Deliver genuine Māori outcomes through meaningful engagement. Ensure the Port is managed for long-term public benefit. Grow the Auckland Future Fund and invest in resilient infrastructure to support storm recovery and climate adaptation.
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.