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Henrietta DEVOE

Henrietta DEVOE

Candidate for Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board (Ōtara Subdivision)

ACT Local

Candidate statement

Time and again, Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board has let residents down with neglected public facilities, wasteful spending on nice‑to‑haves, and decisions driven by ideology instead of practical solutions. It’s time for a shake-up on our local board. As an Ōtara-based real estate agent and community advocate, I understand the issues our neighbourhoods face because I too see them every day. With five years in real estate and hands-on experience helping families and first‑home buyers, I bring a practical, solutions‑focused approach with a strong commitment to delivering community‑driven outcomes. By voting for me as an ACT Local candidate, you know what you are going to get: I will advocate for long‑overdue stormwater upgrades, better waste services, investment in our parks, playgrounds and youth facilities, and support for streamlining local processes and backing small businesses. If you want common sense back on the board, please give me one of your votes.

Why I want to be elected

Ratepayers have been let down by higher rates, more bureaucracy, wasteful pet projects and neglected basics. It’s time to focus on what matters – safe streets, working infrastructure and value for money. After more than 10 years living in Otara, I understand our community’s needs and will bring practical solutions to deliver real change locally._ By voting for me as an ACT Local candidate, you know I’ll keep rates down, stop wasteful spending, and deliver essential services.

My key skills and qualities

I’m a wife of 23 years, a mum of 6. I’m a licensed real estate agent and a community advocate with real-world problem-solving experience that knows how to get things done and hold decision makers to account. I’ll keep rates low, ensure essential services are maintained to a high standard, and restore transparency so residents can see exactly how their money is being spent.

My top three key issues

Lower rates – stopping waste and keeping council spending focused on essentials. Less waste – ending pet projects and cutting unnecessary bureaucracy. Better services – fixing roads, clearing drains, collecting rubbish and maintaining public spaces.

My position on key topics

  • Transport

    I’ll fix the basics – maintain footpaths, clear drains, and keep traffic flowing. I’ll oppose anti-car policies like excessive speed bumps, road narrowings, and cycleways that don’t reflect local needs. Transport choices should be practical and locally decided, not driven by ideology.

  • Water

    I’ll support local projects that fix flooding, clear blocked drains, and maintain stormwater infrastructure. We need real investment in pipes and pumps – not vanity projects – so water and wastewater systems are reliable, affordable, and focused on essentials for ratepayers.

  • Built environment

    I'll oppose red tape that blocks development while ensuring infrastructure keeps up. I support increased housing density around key area - building where it's most needed and makes the most sense - so Otara can grow without pushing up rates or wasting money.

  • Natural environment

    I'll back local pest control, coastal protection, and better flood management - but stop wasting money on political climate projects that don't deliver for ratepayers or the environment. Focus should be on practical work that benefits nature and protects communities.

  • Community

    I'll get the basics right - fix walkways, maintain community centres and libraries, and support practical local events that bring people together without pushing 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 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.

  • Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori

    All residents should be treated equally. I'll campaign to remove the voting rights of unelected Independent Mãori Statutory Board members on council committees. Strategic assets like the Port and Future Fund must be run efficiently to lower rates, strengthen resilience, and stop waste.

Candidate's supporting links

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Disclaimer

The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.