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
Raj Pardeep Singh is a lawyer, business owner, community advocate, and proud Papatoetoe local. He lives with his wife Ashima, son Samar studying Law and Commerce at the University of Auckland, and daughter Samaira, in Year 6. Raj has a proven record of leadership and service. As Chair of the Papatoetoe Cricket Club and Past President of the Rotary Club Papatoetoe, he has led teams, managed risks, built partnerships, and listened to the community by bringing people together and delivering real results. As Principle of Legal Associates, a multicultural law firm in Papatoetoe, he advocates passionately for fairness, inclusion of South Auckland's diverse communities. Raj stands firmly on Labour values of equity, opportunity, and empowerment. Raj's vision is to transform Papatoetoe into a safer, vibrant, and thriving business and family hub. Vote Raj Pardeep Singh for an experienced, strong and compassionate leader who will represent with integrity and purpose. #VoteRajPardeepSingh
Why I want to be elected
Principal Solicitor at Legal Associates, I, Raj Pardeep Singh, will bring proven legal expertise, principled leadership, and a strong record of community service. Papatoetoe deserves a representative who listens, acts, and delivers. My vision: a safer, vibrant hub where families thrive, businesses grow, and every voice is respected. I will work to strengthen our economy, protect community and create opportunities that empower all. This is our home — together, we will secure its brightest future.
My key skills and qualities
As a lawyer with the heart of a community advocate, and the drive of a local who cares deeply about Papatoetoe and believes in problem-solving, negotiations, and delivering results. I’ve spent over 25 years helping people navigate challenges, building trust across cultures, and supporting local families and businesses. If elected, I’ll use my legal expertise and community experience to make Papatoetoe safer, more vibrant, and full of opportunity, a place where every voice is heard.
My top three key issues
I’m passionate about building Papatoetoe that is safe, vibrant, and full of opportunity. I’ll work for safer streets, thriving local businesses, and a vibrant, inclusive Papatoetoe. My vision is a community where families feel secure, businesses flourish, and every voice is valued — a united, diverse hub of opportunity and pride. I want our community to be a place where children can walk safely, families feel connected, and opportunities are within everyone’s reach.
My position on key topics
Transport
Papatoetoe’s growth means more traffic. We need safer roads, reliable buses and trains, and better walking and cycling links. I’ll push for free or subsidised public transport trials to boost use, cut costs, and meet climate goals. By working with Auckland Transport, securing funding, prioritising local needs, and acting on community feedback, we can build a safe, efficient, and accessible transport network for all. We can create smarter, connected transport and keep our community moving safely.
Water
I’ll champion Healthy Waters initiatives—Manukau Harbour Forum, Tāmaki Estuary Forum, and Ōtara Waterways & Lake Trust—to restore biodiversity, reduce pollution, and elevate water quality in our streams, harbour, and estuary. I’ll push for improved wastewater infrastructure to prevent overflows and contamination. Together with Council’s local environmental priorities and targeted-rate funding, I’ll ensure resources go where they’re needed most—creating healthier waterways and strong community.
Built environment
I support urban growth that delivers affordable, well-designed housing, modern infrastructure, and vibrant town centres, while protecting our cultural and built heritage. I’ll back quality developments, support BIDs, and push for upgrades like the Papatoetoe Community Hub. Working with Auckland Urban Development Office (AUDO), securing targeted funding, and engaging our community, we can enhance connectivity, green spaces, and facilities while preserving the unique character of Ōtara-Papatoetoe.
Natural environment
I will progress initiatives like the Manukau Harbour Forum, Tāmaki Estuary Forum, and Ōtara Waterways & Lake Trust to improve water quality and biodiversity. This includes pest control, Eco-Friendly Communities, and KaiWaka programmes that connect people to sustainable living. By partnering with mana whenua, schools, and local groups, and securing targeted rate funding, we can increase planting, restore habitats, reduce pollution, and strengthen climate resilience for future generations.
Community
I will strengthen community connections through events, arts, and cultural programmes that celebrate our diversity, reflecting our vision of strong, inclusive, and resilient communities. Leveraging my Rotary and Papatoetoe Cricket Club experience, I’ll promote youth development, volunteerism, and active lifestyles. By working with mana whenua, community groups, and securing funding, we can improve facilities, deliver quality services, and enhance wellbeing for all Papatoetoe Community.
Economic and cultural development
My vision is for a thriving economy where locals succeed in education, careers, and business where thriving town centres and strong BIDs draw people from across Auckland. I’ll back local procurement, business mentoring, and training to grow jobs and skills. Partnering with mana whenua, we’ll weave our rich Pasifika, Māori, and multicultural heritage into events, public spaces, and tourism. We can create a destination that prospers while keeping its unique identity.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I’ll work with Māori communities to protect heritage, support cultural projects, and create education and job opportunities. The Port of Auckland must balance economic growth with environmental care. I back growing the Auckland Future Fund to provide lasting benefits for all Aucklanders. I’ll also push for fair, timely storm recovery funding so we can rebuild stronger, safer communities that reflect values of equity, opportunity, and sustainability.
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.