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
Ranbir Pabla moved to Papakura 40 years ago to raise his family and is now living in Takanini. His children attended Rosehill College and were involved in Club Athletics. He is the Vice President of the Papakura Athletic and Harrier Club, with 23 years of voluntary service to the club as a coach, and delegate to the regional athletics body. Ranbir's expertise in sports leadership means he knows the importance of providing more local sports activities for youth, and improving and developing community facilities for all people of Papakura. His background working with multicultural groups, and in small business across retail, transport and security, will contribute to his goal to help build a thriving local economy. Ranbir's studies in Te Reo Māori and environmental management has strengthened his desire to protect local parks, bush and waterways for future generations. Two Council votes Joseph Allan, Cunningham-Marino. Six Local Board votes #LovePapakura.
Why I want to be elected
My background working with multicultural groups, and in small business across retail, transport and security, will contribute to my goal to help build a thriving local economy. My studies in Te Reo Māori and environmental management has strengthened my desire to protect local parks, bush and waterways for future generations.
My key skills and qualities
I moved to Papakura 40 years ago to raise his family and is now living in Takaanini. My children attended Rosehill College and were involved in Club Athletics. I am the Vice President of the Papakura Athletic and Harrier Club, with 23 years of voluntary service to the club as a coach, and delegate to the regional athletics body. My expertise in sports leadership means I know the importance of providing more local sports activities for youth, and improving and community facilities for all.
My top three key issues
#LovePapakura will build a more engaged Local Board that listens and responds—so groups aren’t left waiting for a hall or help to feel safe. Finish Ōpaheke Park and upgrade play spaces for families. Make streets safer by repairing footpaths, sweeping streets to keep drains clear and prevent flooding, and supporting your choice for weekly rubbish collections so our neighbourhoods are cleaner, healthier, and more welcoming for everyone.
My position on key topics
Transport
#LovePapakura will push for more funding and decision-making for Local Boards with the restructure of Auckland Transport, delivering safety and maintenance that meet local needs. Fix broken footpaths, set sensible speed limits, and improve safety around schools. Upgrade roads, signs, and lights, promote walking and cycling, add accessible carparks in high-density areas, curb roaming dogs, and improve lighting near stations, bus stops, and alleyways.
Water
#LovePapakura backs protecting water quality, supply, and resilience. Ōpaheke Park’s wetlands and streams treat stormwater before it flows to the Manukau Harbour, while reducing flood risk. Future developments should follow this model—open spaces that serve both as valued amenities in dense urban areas and as flood protection. We’ll invest in upgrades, conservation, and partnerships with mana whenua to safeguard waterways.
Built environment
#LovePapakura supports urban growth that’s well-connected, with reliable, direct public transport so people can reach work or leisure quickly without long waits or multiple transfers. We oppose developments and intensification in flood prone areas. We will back housing and infrastructure that fit local needs, protect heritage, and create vibrant, walkable communities where amenities, green spaces, and transport links are integrated and accessible for quality living in a growing Auckland.
Natural environment
#LovePapakura will provide strong leadership on climate action, fund local waste minimisation and support Climate Ready Papakura for community-led resilience planning. Promote water efficiency, reduce food waste and emissions, and improve home insulation. Protect waterways, harbours, beaches, and streams. Support emergency preparedness, pest and weed management, and integrate risk reduction, readiness, response, and recovery across the community.
Community
#LovePapakura will back local groups, like Takaanini for a new hall, and help Bottle Top Bay residents tackle anti-social behaviour and rubbish. Upgrade playgrounds based on community priorities, and extend free Massey Park Pool access to Goldcard holders, supervising adults and disabled people. Support events, sports for all children, youth spaces to belong, community gardens, urban farms, local hubs, the Community Resilience Network, and programmes that keep seniors connected and supported.
Economic and cultural development
#LovePapakura will work with Town Centre Managers to deliver strong economic plans, including funding for safety initiatives and opposing new off-licence liquor or vaping stores. Support local jobs through council procurement and business associations, prioritising youth employment. Promote skills training and qualification access. Encourage diverse local businesses and maintain a visible police presence in shopping areas.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
#LovePapakura upholds Te Tiriti o Waitangi and strong partnerships with mana whenua. We back Ara Kōtui so southern Iwi voices shape local decisions. Grounded in whanaungatanga, we value ties with Iwi, Mataawaka and Papakura Marae. We support Māori-led solutions, rangatahi leadership and whānau-focused communities. We’ll advocate for housing, transport and jobs that reflect Papakura’s identity and foster belonging.
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.