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
The world is in crisis - war, climate chaos, and systems treating animals and humans and environment as expendable. The change we need starts locally, in how we live, protect animals, and care for our shared home. Vote for Rob McNeil, Animal Justice Party – Animals. Environment. People. Everything is connected. Cruelty to animals and destruction of nature harm us all. Local councils shape how we build, move, and protect life. Animals must be central in those decisions. We’re fighting for: No live exports through our ports; Mandatory funded desexing of dogs and cats; Funded animal rescues and sanctuaries; Respect for Te Tiriti; Food gardens, native planting, thriving biodiversity; Low rates and efficient governance; Better public transport for all species; Clean waters and green spaces - rewilding for climate resilience. Vote for Rob McNeil, Animal Justice Party. Let’s build communities that protect animals - and us.
Why I want to be elected
Cruelty to animals & destruction of nature harm us all. Councils shape how we build, move, & protect life. Animals (we are all animals) must be central in those decisions. Rob & the Animal Justice Party fight for: • No live exports through our ports • Mandatory funded desexing of dogs & cats • Funded animal rescues and sanctuaries • Food gardens, native planting, thriving biodiversity • Low rates and efficient governance • Better public transport for all species • Clean waters and green spaces
My key skills and qualities
A born & bred Aucklander, & a Chartered Accountant & Animal Justice Party candidate, I bring both empathy & organisational skills to help speak effectively for vulnerable animals, who desperately need a voice in politics. I believe in empathic listening, building consensus where possible, & advancing the path of social justice. I look forward to applying both my business & communication skills to Aucklanders' needs for lean, efficient & compassionate government. Please isit animaljustice.org.nz
My top three key issues
* Low rates and efficient governance: We need to take a long, hard look at all aspects of the Council budget, to ensure Aucklanders are getting the best 'bang for the buck'. I will also donate 80% of my salary to worthy causes. * Funding for mandatory desexing of dogs & cats: Insufficient pound capacities, & rampant killing of dogs is inconsistent with a compassionate Auckland. * We need better public transport for all species - smarter, cheaper and safer systems, for humans & animals both.
My position on key topics
Transport
Auckland’s transport must protect people, animals, and the planet. I’ll deliver affordable, reliable public transport with electric buses and better links, safe cycling and walking networks, and roads designed for safety—not speed. Wildlife crossings and humane transport planning will reduce emissions, congestion, and harm, creating a cleaner, connected city that works for all species. Animals need safe public transport too - this is common in other cities - let's just get this done.
Water
Water is life for people, animals, & ecosystems. I’ll keep supply public & secure, restore wetlands, clean streams & beaches, upgrade wastewater systems, & manage stormwater naturally with rain gardens & permeable surfaces. Every water decision will protect aquatic life & ensure clean, safe access for future generations while reducing flood & drought risks. I worked for many years in senior financial management for a Canadian firm designing & building water & wastewater systems. We can do this.
Built environment
We need smarter growth, not endless sprawl. I’ll push for affordable, energy-efficient housing built where services exist, avoiding destruction of wildlife habitats. Infrastructure will prioritize public transport, renewables, & climate resilience. Heritage will be protected, ensuring Auckland grows sustainably while preserving identity and improving life for animals, people, & nature. People need space, & nature needs space. With comapssion and good dialogue, we can meet all needs.
Natural environment
Nature is essential for resilience and wellbeing. I’ll lead ambitious rewilding—restoring wetlands, planting natives, cleaning waterways, and creating wildlife corridors. Parks will become biodiversity sanctuaries, cooling the city and absorbing floodwaters. Protecting natural spaces shields us from climate extremes, restores habitats, and builds a thriving Auckland for future generations.
Community
Strong communities are connected, fair, & compassionate. I’ll invest in libraries, parks, & link neighbourhoods with safe walking and cycling routes, support rescues and sanctuaries, and fund grassroots initiatives. Community gardens and local events will build connection. Efficient governance will keep rates low while ensuring services improve wellbeing for all.
Economic and cultural development
I'll back local businesses with fair support, drive economic growth through smart investment, and showcase Auckland’s cultural and natural wonders—our beaches, volcanoes, nature walks and heritage - to attract tourists and celebrate what makes our city unique. With constructive dialgoue, and a common theme of my candidacy (to create safe, collaborative spaces where we can positively move forward on collaborative ideas), much can be achieved...
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
The AJP embraces Te Tiriti o Waitangi - its principles of partnership, protection, and participation must guide council decisions. A just transition to a plant-based, cruelty-free society, with no live exports from our Ports, reflects these principles, promoting harmony between humans, animals, and ecosystems. By integrating mātauranga Māori and co-governance models, councils can honour kaitiakitanga, foster inclusivity, and create resilient communities where people and animals thrive together.
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.