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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.
FaAfuhia Michael FIA
Candidate for Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Ward
Independent
Candidate statement
I am standing as a candidate for Ward Councillor and as a Local Board member. I have a strong background in governance and service. Having previously served on the Boards of a large faith-based charity and the Board of a Trade Union. I currently serve on the Board of the University of Auckland. I am a District Licensing Committee Member dealing with disputed alcohol license applications. Central Government is bringing rapid changes with the return of powers held by AT, and now CCOs' functions being integrated into Council. I have grown deeply concerned about the direction taken at the Local Board level and at the Council Board Table, pursuing vanity projects and expecting you to fit the bill. I offer an independent, common-sense approach to governance, willing to work with others constructively. However, never afraid to speak truth to power. Driving accountability for ratepayers' money. We need change Vote Fia!
Why I want to be elected
I want to be elected to ensure local government works for Aucklanders and is guided by common sense. As one of the younger people on the ballot, I see the Council's role as a facilitator, making the Region a place people want to live, work and play in. Currently, the Council is doing a poor job of doing this. I'm putting my hand up so we can get Council back under control. Accountability, Transparency, Common Sense
My key skills and qualities
I bring a level head to all my decisions. I have been at the grassroots of many organisations, such as a Trade Union. However, I also bring a level of boardroom experience, having served on the Board of a large faith-based charity. I serve as a District Licensing Member for the Auckland Region and also on the Board of the University of Auckland. I cite this experience, as most people point to my age (24) as a reason to doubt my abilities. Trust in youth and experience with me.
My top three key issues
1. Control of Council Spending – There is simply too much waste at the Council. We need to look at every line of the budget and ask Is this the best value for money? 2. Common Sense Transport Policy – with more of AT's powers being brought into the Council's direct control 3. Transparency – Elected Representatives have not been nearly as transparent as they ought to be. You need to have trust that someone is telling you why they voted in a particular manner, and to trust in their judgment
My position on key topics
Transport
More of Auckland Transport's powers are being bought in-house. As a frequent user of public transport, there are two things that need improvement: speed and price. With "time of use" charging being mooted for public transport, this needs to be a priority. Further investment needs to be made in the traffic light technology that is implemented in some parts of the Region that prioritise buses at lights. Think about the 75 or 30 bus routes who get stuck at traffic lights.
Water
The Auckland Anniversary Floods highlight that we have a deficit in this space. WaterCare being financially independent since 1st July 2025 is great for ratepayers (opening up finance for large capital projects). However, the performance of the Board and by extension its staff is important. I will ask the hard questions about future-proofing our water infrastructure, making sure there is a pipeline of capital work for future-proofing our city.
Built environment
The Ward and Region are currently seeing rapid growth in terms of housing intensification, etc. However, it's our Ward that is bearing the brunt of this intensification. I would vote down and push for the abolishment of special character and heritage overlays within the AUP. If you want to live in a Villa in a nice part of town, by all accounts, do that, but that should not stop the Council from allowing others to build homes for the Region. This space is seeing change from central government.
Natural environment
Our natural spaces are important to every Auckland, whether that be the local reserve down the road or our regional parks. Any projects that would promote climate resilience would have my support subject to the Council maintaining a balanced budget.
Community
Our Communities and facilities are great things to be championed. I particularly see value in our Local Board and Regional Grant programmes. These are tangible examples where the Council facilitates your community to undertake the mahi on the ground. I do not support the current local board funding arrangements, as they may lead to changes in the amount of funding the Local Board receives.
Economic and cultural development
We need to get the Council's policy settings correct so that major events will be held in the Region. Changing our culture of no to a culture of yes. Thinking in terms of funding, I support the bed tax being promoted by other candidates. This would provide the Council with an income stream that would be focused on improving our economic environment. Tataki Auckland Limited, being bought in-house, means we need to have strong voices making sure your money is being spent responsibly.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
We have statutory duties to Maori under the Local Government Act. I support the current Council's practice. The Independent Māori Statutory Board provides us with expertise to make those decisions at the Regional Level.
Candidate's supporting links
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