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 Craig Hansen is an experienced educator, charitable trust board member and business person. A proud family man living and working in our community for 21 years, Craig recently helped launch an alternative education programme at Papakura High School. He is highly qualified; at the top of his field with a PhD in Education (creative technologies) and Masters of Educational Management. Dr Craig has dedicated his career to empowering young minds, and helping communities create vibrant, thriving neighbourhoods. He is passionate about improving local infrastructure, fostering safer places to live and play, and advocating for better local employment opportunities. Dr Craig has a proven track record helping communities find solutions to difficult issues, including training senior leaders internationally in disaster/emergency relief, and combating human trafficking. He is eager to build a stronger, more connected Papakura. Two Council votes Joseph Allan, Cunningham-Marino. Six Local Board votes #LovePapakura.
Why I want to be elected
As a part of #LovePapakura I'm committed to transformative change! We'll secure more Local Board funding, fix broken footpaths, and enhance public transport lighting. We'll upgrading playgrounds, extend free pool access for seniors/disabled, funding Climate Ready Papakura, waste minimisation programmes, and supporting Takaanini's new hall. We'll oppose new liquor/vaping stores, deliver safety & strong economic plans with Town Centre Managers, and focus on youth development.
My key skills and qualities
I bring proven leadership as an educator, father, trust board member & business person. With PhD in Education & 30 years the region, I offer deep local knowledge & strategic expertise. I excel at collaborative problem-solving, having trained international leaders & launched innovative businesses. I will combine grassroots understanding, strong communication skills & passionate commitment to empowering our community. I will deliver results & turn vision into action for Papakura's future.
My top three key issues
Community Wellbeing - upgrading playgrounds for families, free pool access for seniors and disabled residents, and supporting youth engagement. Economic Growth with Heart - creating local training for young people, opposing harmful liquor/vaping stores, and a revitalised, safe town center fostering prosperity. Safe Transport for Everyone - fixing broken footpaths for mobility, improving school zone & public transport, and ensuring our grandparents, parents, and kids can move safely.
My position on key topics
Transport
I'll fight for more Local Board funding and decision-making power through Auckland Transport's restructure. Together, we'll fix broken footpaths that trip up our elderly, create sensible speed limits protecting our children, and improve safety around every school. I'll upgrade roads, signs, and lights while promoting walking and cycling. We'll add accessible parking in high-density areas, tackle roaming dogs, and brighten stations, bus stops, and alleyways so everyone feels safe traveling.
Water
I'm committed to protecting our water quality, supply, and resilience for future generations. Ōpaheke Park's innovative wetlands treat stormwater before reaching Manukau Harbour while reducing flood risk—this is our blueprint for smart development. I'll invest in infrastructure upgrades, promote conservation and rainwater harvesting, and partner with mana whenua to safeguard our precious waterways. Clean water and flood protection are essentials.
Built environment
I support smart urban growth with reliable, direct public transport that gets you to work or leisure quickly—no more endless waits or transfers! I'll champion housing and infrastructure that fit our local character, protect our heritage, and create vibrant, walkable neighbourhoods. Imagine communities where amenities, green spaces, and transport seamlessly connect, delivering quality living as Papakura grows. That's the future we're building together for everyone.
Natural environment
I'll lead bold climate action, funding local waste minimisation and supporting Climate Ready Papakura's resilience planning. Together, we'll promote water efficiency, slash food waste and emissions, and improve home insulation. I'm passionate about protecting our waterways, harbours, beaches, and streams while strengthening emergency preparedness. Through integrated pest management and environmental protection, we're building a sustainable, resilient Papakura.
Community
I'll champion local groups like Takaanini's new hall project and help Bottle Top Bay residents tackle anti-social behavior. Watch me deliver upgraded playgrounds based on your priorities and free Massey Park Pool access for Goldcard holders, disabled users, and supervising adults. I'll boost community events, ensure every child can play sport regardless of family income, and support community gardens and urban farms that bring us together and strengthen our neighborhoods.
Economic and cultural development
I'll partner with businesses & the Papakura & Takaanini Business Associations to deliver robust economic plans, fund safety initiatives, and block harmful liquor/vaping stores. My focus: creating local jobs through smart council procurement prioritising youth engagement, and promoting Māori participation in our economy. I'll champion skills training, encourage diverse local businesses, and ensure visible police presence in shopping areas. Prosperity with purpose—that's my promise to Papakura.
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.