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
Dr Choudhary is a former Member of New Zealand Parliament (2002-2011). He is former Assoc. Professor of agricultural engineering and internationally recognised engineering scientist at Massey University for over 25 years. He was also elected as Member of Counties Manukau District Health Board (2016-2019). He is currently serving as an elected Member of Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board since 2016. Dr Choudhary advocates for wider community participation at both local and national level decision-making processes. He believes that Manukau should be transformed to become a prosperous multicultural hub of Auckland. He passionately believes in service delivery, economic well-being, and supports fair and equitable access to services for all our citizens. Dr Choudhary is a long time Manukau resident and closely involved in many community activities. He has been honoured with Queens Service Order (QSO) for his services to ethnic Community and agricultural conservation science and also made a JP.
Why I want to be elected
I have been an elected Otara Papatoetoe Local Board Member since 1916. In this role I have been able to help improve transport system within our area. For example having new railway station built in Puhinui and Regional Bus station in Manukau. Also improve road safety for our constituents. We have helped improve our parks, playgrounds and facilities for youth. In addition we have helped our seniors towards positive ageing. We have helped improve civic participation of constit through grants etc.
My key skills and qualities
I am a former Massey University academic, researcher and a consultant. This has helped me bring rational thinking in decision making. Also, I am former Member of New Zealand Parliament and that experience helps me provide leadership role in decision making. I am closely connected in advisory role with various communities in Auckland and that helps me understand concerns and needs of our constituents. This way I play leading role in decision making towards improving quality of life our community.
My top three key issues
1. Further improve sports and playground facilities. 2. Further improve transport system within our local board area and provide better connectivity with Auckland airport. 3. Discourage rubbish dumping and continue weekly rubbish collection.
My position on key topics
Transport
Provide rail and bus connectivity with airport and Howick. Improve safety around schools and childcare centres. Will encourage walk ways in parks and improve footpaths. Enhance cycling without impacting businesses
Water
Will continue advocacy for upgrading sewage and drainage system in our local board area. With increasing housing intensity we need improvement in storm water drainage to reduce flooding conditions.
Built environment
While we need enhanced housing for our constituents, lack of parking in high intensity housing is a major issue. Will continue our advocacy to provide adequate car parking in urban development and housing intensification and infrastructure improvements.
Natural environment
With high gas emissions and global warming becoming a major concern we need to provide more climate resilience through more tree planting, reducing CO2, methane and nitrous oxide emissions. Will encourage more tree planting, continue advocating for solar development etc.
Community
We need to improve quality of our seniors through positive ageing programs. Improve safety of our school kids through improved road crossing. Encourage local services and sport facilities for all groups. Provide grants to groups providing better quality of life and engagement. Advocate for equality and justice for all our citizens irrespective of their ethnicities and background.
Economic and cultural development
We have already employed an Economic Advisor at OPLB to engage with industry, academic institutions and investors to bring in more investment in businesses to provide job opportunities, enhance tourism, academic opportunities, and promote night life for young people in Manukau. Promote Manukau as second CBD after Auckland CBD. Also work with law enforcement authorities to enhance safety and security of communities and businesses. Bring more cultural events ie Pacifica,Diwali, Chinese events
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Have always supported opportunities and better outcomes for our Māori community. Respect the Treaty of Waitangi and enhance welfare of our Māori community.
Candidate's supporting links
The candidate has chosen not to provide a response.