Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Amanda LOCKYER
Candidate for Ōrākei Local Board
ACT Local
Candidate statement
I'm proud to call St Heliers home, where I live with my husband, two children, and our much-loved Golden Retriever. A former commercial litigation lawyer, I founded and run a local fitness business, Inspire by Amanda. My legal and business expertise, alongside strong community connections, offers a pragmatic perspective on local issues. I’m focused on getting the basics right – ensuring accountable spending; keeping public spaces clean, safe, and welcoming; advocating for robust water policies to tackle flooding, stormwater, and wastewater while protecting beaches and water quality; fostering community initiatives that strengthen neighbourhoods; and supporting practical, people-focused transport solutions. With energy, integrity, and a solutions-driven focus, I’m committed to delivering real results – building stronger, more liveable suburbs where residents feel proud to live, work, and raise their families. I’m standing with my two ACT Local colleagues to deliver real change for Ōrākei and would love to have your support.
Why I want to be elected
After 30+ years in the Ōrākei ward, I understand our community’s needs and want to give back to the area that I love. I’ll bring a strong voice and fresh perspective to the Board. My focus is on getting the basics right, stopping wasteful spending, safeguarding waterways and coastline, improving transport solutions, and demanding accountability with transparency. By voting for me as an ACT Local candidate, you’ll get practical solutions to deliver real change locally.
My key skills and qualities
As a former commercial litigation lawyer and now successful local business owner, I bring strong analytical and problem-solving skills along with the ability to listen, engage, and deliver results. I know how to get things done and hold decision-makers to account. If elected, I’ll bring fresh energy, ensure essential services are maintained to a high standard, support practical transport solutions, and restore transparency so residents can see exactly how their money is being spent.
My top three key issues
Back to basics – I’ll focus on getting the basics right, less waste and ensuring the Board delivers essential services with accountability and transparency, so ratepayers get real value for money. Improved infrastructure – I’ll advocate for better stormwater management and flood protection to safeguard properties, and to keep our beaches and waterways clean and safe. Smarter transport – I’ll back practical solutions that give real choice to motorists, cyclists and public transport users.
My position on key topics
Transport
I’ll fix the basics – maintain footpaths, clear drains, and keep traffic flowing. Ratepayers deserve real value for money, not costly anti-car measures like excessive speed bumps and road narrowings that create congestion. Local transport choices should be practical and accountable, improving access to businesses, schools, and services, with better connections, more parking, and solutions that work for cyclists, motorcyclists, motorists, and public transport users alike.
Water
I’ll advocate for local projects that fix flooding, clear drains, and maintain stormwater infrastructure. We need real investment in pipes and pumps – not vanity projects – with accountability and transparency so ratepayers know their money is spent wisely. Our water and wastewater systems must be reliable, affordable, and focused on the essentials that matter most to Aucklanders.
Built environment
I’ll fight for sensible urban development near major transport hubs, where infrastructure like stormwater, wastewater, and roads can keep up. Auckland needs more housing, but it must be practical and well-planned – not imposed in the wrong places. I’ll stand up for protecting our heritage and the character of local communities while making sure growth delivers real value for ratepayers.
Natural environment
I’ll back local pest control, coastal protection, and effective flood management – with accountability so ratepayers see real results. I’ll oppose wasteful political climate projects that don’t deliver. My focus is on practical, affordable action that restores biodiversity, keeps waterways and beaches healthy, and protects our communities from flooding and coastal erosion.
Community
I’ll get the basics right – maintaining walkways, community centres and our local libraries that connect people of all ages. I'll ensure the Colin Maiden Park upgrade is delivered well, and ratepayers get real value from safe, well-run facilities and family-friendly spaces. I’ll back practical local events that strengthen connections without politics. Well-run facilities and safe public spaces are the foundation of strong communities.
Economic and cultural development
I’ll work with local businesses to revitalise our town centres, improve safety and foot traffic, and cut red tape so it’s easier to hold markets, events, or get a licence. Strong local economies and vibrant communities go hand-in-hand, and I’ll support initiatives that showcase our cultural heritage, celebrate diversity, and strengthen the unique identity of each neighbourhood.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
All residents should be treated equally. I’ll support removing the voting rights of unelected members on council committees. I’ll advocate for greater accountability and transparency in decision-making, while seeking input from Māori and all communities. Strategic assets like the Port and Future Fund must be run efficiently to strengthen resilience, stop waste, and deliver real value for Aucklanders, alongside strong local storm recovery and services.
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.