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
Avinash Kaur has lived across New Zealand and now proudly calls Papatoetoe home. She serves the community as a Justice of the Peace, Marriage Celebrant, and small business owner, bringing practical experience in the community service, customer care, and business operations. If elected, Avinash will focus on creating a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive Papatoetoe supporting better lighting, CCTV, youth engagement, and smarter use of public funds. As a proud Sikh and New Zealander, she stands by the values of Seva (selfless service), compassion, and unity. During major crises like COVID-19, Cyclone Gabrielle, and recent floods, the Sikh community stepped up without government funding. With a seat on the local board, Avinash believes even more is possible. She promises to lead with integrity and humility, stay connected to grassroots voices, and advocate strongly for the community guided by a spirit of service and collaboration.
Why I want to be elected
I want to be elected to help create a cleaner, safer, and more connected Papatoetoe. I will support regular community clean-ups, school awareness programmes, support seniors and improved waste management systems. I will work to enhance safety through more lighting, security cameras, and community watch initiatives. I will ensure rates are managed responsibly, listen to residents’ voices, and deliver practical, inclusive solutions that meet the needs of our diverse community.
My key skills and qualities
I bring strong communication, problem-solving, and organisational skills, with experience in customer service, administration, and community engagement. As a Marriage Celebrant, Justice of the Peace, and local volunteer, I work well with diverse groups, listen to people’s needs, and deliver practical solutions. I am committed, approachable, and dedicated to making positive changes for our community.
My top three key issues
My top priorities are a cleaner Papatoetoe, a safer community, and responsible use of rates. I’m passionate about reducing rubbish dumping through awareness and regular clean-ups, improving safety with better lighting and security cameras, and ensuring rates are spent wisely to avoid extra burdens. These issues matter because they directly affect our quality of life, community pride, and financial wellbeing.
My position on key topics
Transport
I support safer, well-maintained roads, reliable public transport without bus cancellations, and affordable fares. I’ll advocate for better parking to support local businesses, fewer unnecessary speed bumps, more pedestrian crossings, safer cycle lanes, and accessible transport options, making travel easier, safer, and more connected for everyone in our community.
Water
Auckland’s water must be managed sustainably to ensure clean, safe supply for all. We should invest in upgrading infrastructure to prevent leaks and contamination, improve stormwater systems to reduce flooding and pollution, and ensure wastewater is treated responsibly to protect our environment. Community education on water conservation is also key to preserving this vital resource for future generations.
Built environment
I believe we should preserve heritage while not putting pressure on ratepayers. Urban development must balance growth with protecting community character. Developers should only get permission if they provide enough parking at least two car parks per unit. We need affordable housing, good infrastructure, green spaces, and sustainable planning that respects the environment and includes community input to build liveable neighbourhoods.
Natural environment
To protect Auckland’s natural spaces, we must priorities native biodiversity by planting native trees and restoring habitats. I support reducing plastic use by promoting reusables. Also, introducing different bin plans weekly for high users, fortnightly for low users would reward households that produce less waste and reduce costs and workload for Auckland Council, encouraging sustainable behavior and better resource use.
Community
I plan to build strong, connected communities by supporting local events and volunteer programmes. I regularly visit Gurudwaras, churches, clubs, and participate in the Community Connect programme where leaders from diverse clubs, NGOs, and centres introduce themselves. This helps raise awareness and build relationships. I’ll also advocate for better facilities and wellbeing initiatives to ensure everyone feels included and supported.
Economic and cultural development
My vision is to boost economic growth by supporting local businesses with better access to resources, affordable spaces, and parking. I’ll promote cultural heritage by encouraging events and programmes that celebrate our diverse communities, fostering pride and understanding. Supporting skills training and local entrepreneurship will create jobs and strengthen the economy, while preserving and sharing our unique cultural stories will enrich our community identity.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I support strong partnerships with Māori to deliver meaningful outcomes that respect tikanga and promote wellbeing. Managing the Port of Auckland should balance economic growth with environmental care. I back responsible use of the Auckland Future Fund to invest in projects benefiting all communities. For storm recovery, I advocate timely support and resilient infrastructure to protect people and taonga, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future for Auckland.