Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Lauren HAWKEN
Candidate for Ōrākei Local Board
Candidate statement
As a former Urban and Environmental Planner with over 20 years’ experience, including running my own business, I offer an understanding of planning regulations, policy, SME business interactions, and meaningful community engagement. I’m focused on equal outcomes from intensification and the need to address our ageing/over-capacity infrastructure. I’m an active committee member of the St Heliers and Glendowie Residents Association since 2022 and have worked closely with OLB members and on community events. I’ve supported residents on key issues such as high-intensity development, local flooding, ageing infrastructure, asbestos on our beaches, and our public green spaces. I’m standing for the Ōrākei Local Board to bring fresh energy, transparency, and to advocate for you. I believe in quality planning, smart spending, and good supportive infrastructure. I have lived in Glendowie with my family, raising our three boys, and if elected to the Ōrākei Local Board, I’d be honoured to represent you.
Why I want to be elected
If elected, I will prioritise transparent, accountable decision-making, responsible use of ratepayers’ funds, meaningful community engagement, strong local advocacy, and strategic, sustainable planning that protects our environment. I am committed to delivering outcomes that enhance our community. As a former Resource and Environmental Planner and small business owner, I bring practical insight and future-focused thinking to every decision.
My key skills and qualities
- Proven advocate for responsible spending, environmental care, & balanced development. - Planning expertise & understanding of Council processes. - Experience collaborating across agencies to achieve results. - Strong communication & problem-solving skills. - Approachable, practical, & community-focused. - Independent Voice, committed to listening, collaborating, & advocating. - Local resident for 30+ years, with deep community insight.
My top three key issues
I’m passionate about ensuring that residents are heard, ratepayer funds are used wisely, and decisions are made openly & evidence-based. With strong advocacy and strategic, sustainable planning, we can protect Ōrākei’s character, meet future challenges, and create a community that thrives for generations. Choose an independent voice: your voice for better community decision-making.
My position on key topics
Transport
My transport priorities in Orakei focus on safety, accessibility, and community connection. I will advocate for reliable public transportation, promote walking and cycling links between suburbs, schools, and amenities, and, more importantly, listen to the community and businesses to inform decisions that improve local transportation options. Transport options should be directed by the Community, not a desktop exercise.
Water
Auckland should ensure safe, reliable water and protect the environment. Stormwater must be upgraded to prevent flooding and pollution, and wastewater must be managed to avoid overflows. In Orakei, I support sustainable infrastructure improvements, proactive maintenance, and community engagement to safeguard water quality and resilience for current and future residents. We need to 'fix' the pollution (black flags) of our local beaches.
Built environment
Orākei suburbs were upzoned in 2016, and I do not support further upzoning. With density limits removed, housing can expand generally without restriction. Most suburbs in the Orakei Local Board area (except Stonefields) have aging infrastructure needing proper upgrades, not band-aid fixes. I support heritage & cultural protection to preserve our “sense of place” and strategic, sustainable planning to manage cumulative development impacts.
Natural environment
The Ōrākei Ward has many outdated Reserve Management Plans, for example, Dingle Dell’s RMP 1984 (required under the Reserves Act 1977). Plans provide a framework for care, protection, and use over time, including climate change impacts. They balance conservation, recreation, cultural values, & community needs to keep reserves valuable and accessible. I will investigate issues, identify plan updates, & work with the Council and the community to refresh these plans where possible.
Community
If elected to the Orakei Local Board, I will strive to strengthen our community’s "sense of place" to foster pride and connection. I will listen to residents to build trust and address local needs. I will advocate for accessible, well-maintained parks, facilities, and transport that reflect our unique character. I will support initiatives promoting mental health, safety, and inclusion through events and programs for youth, seniors, and vulnerable groups to improve community well-being.
Economic and cultural development
I will support economic growth, the local businesses, and promote our cultural heritage. Through the St Heliers and Glendowie Residents Association, I’ve seen businesses struggle from COVID, infrastructure changes, and red cones. It’s important to listen to the community to understand their struggles and concerns, and ensure initiatives reflect their priorities while strengthening community connections.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I support delivering meaningful Māori outcomes with mana whenua on projects that benefit the wider community. I welcome Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei’s proposal for a multi-sport indoor facility in the Ōrākei Domain. I also back sustainable management of Auckland’s ports, responsible growth of the Future Fund, and proactive planning to support storm recovery and resilience.
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.