Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Pele NILI
Candidate for Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board (Ōtara Subdivision)
Candidate statement
Born and raised in Ōtara, I have dedicated over two decades to serving my community. As a founding staff member of ŌTARA 274 YouthCore and co-founder of The GrooveHouse, I’ve run performing arts programs since 1999, helping our young people find their voice and future pathways. I believe Ōtara can be a place where tradition and progress work together - a community that holds on to its roots while growing into new opportunities. My focus is on building spaces for entrepreneurial development, creative solutions, and initiatives that put our people first. I’m standing for local board because I know what Ōtara is capable of. Together, we can protect what we love about our home while building a stronger future for generations to come.
Why I want to be elected
I want to represent Ōtara with honesty, courage, and action. If elected, I’ll fight for safer streets, smarter opportunities for our youth, and real community-driven solutions. I’ll challenge decisions that overlook us and bring fresh energy to ensure Ōtara is not left behind in Auckland’s 2050 plan. My goal is simple: make sure every voice in our community is heard and every opportunity is within reach
My key skills and qualities
I bring years of frontline experience connecting with people—whether through community events, media, or representing local voices in council spaces. I know how to communicate across cultures, build bridges, and stand firm in tough conversations. My skills in public speaking, advocacy, and grassroots organising mean I can raise issues that matter and push them through with courage and strategy.
My top three key issues
1) Protecting Otara’s heritage and culture while shaping growth into a thriving city. (2) Making housing and local development fair—so families aren’t priced out or pushed aside. (3) Building safe, vibrant spaces for youth, sport and the arts. I’m passionate about these because I’ve lived here my whole life, seen the challenges first-hand, and believe our people deserve to rise with the city’s future.
My position on key topics
Transport
We need safer roads in Ōtara and affordable transport that actually works for us. I support better bus frequency, affordable fares for low socio-economic families and youth that can move around confidently. Transport must connect people to jobs, schools, and opportunities — not leave us stranded.
Water
Our water must be protected for future generations. I support strong stormwater systems to stop flooding, cleaner waterways, and making sure homes here aren’t last in line for upgrades. Water is life, and managing it fairly is about dignity, safety, and resilience for every family.
Built environment
Ōtara and Papatoetoe deserve housing that’s affordable, not just profitable. I’ll support smart growth that respects heritage, protects families from being pushed out, and creates safe spaces. Development must benefit locals first, so our identity grows with the city.
Natural environment
Our green spaces, streams, and reserves are treasures. I’ll push for more tree planting, safer parks, and better climate resilience against floods. Protecting our environment means protecting health, culture, and pride — so future generations inherit an Ōtara they can thrive in.
Community
Ōtara’s strength is its people. I’ll back youth spaces, sports, arts, and community-led projects that bring us together. Strong local facilities, fairer funding for boards, and safe public spaces will help build pride and keep our community connected.
Economic and cultural development
I’ll champion local business, creative industries, and cultural events that showcase Ōtara’s talent. Our music, arts, and markets have global reach — let’s invest in them. Growing our economy must mean lifting local jobs and celebrating our Pacific and Māori identity.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I’ll support Māori development, honour mana whenua, and uphold Te Tiriti in all decisions. Auckland must grow without leaving South Auckland behind — every choice should reflect fairness, resilience, and respect.
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.