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The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Lisa WHYTE
Candidate for Rodney Local Board (Dairy Flat Subdivision)
Independent
Candidate statement
I’m an experienced advocate with 18 years of elected service on the North Shore and a track record delivering key community projects - from Albany Pool to new facilities in growth areas, and upgrades for Hockey, BMX, Equestrian, and Baseball. I’ve championed youth programs and expanded access to recreation for all ages and abilities. With a finance background, I bring a fiscally responsible, pragmatic approach to decision-making - balancing budget constraints with the needs of our growing community. I work collaboratively building consensus and solving complex problems. Accessing a quality network of open spaces and varied recreation opportunities are vital to have thriving, connected communities. I serve on the boards of Basketball NZ and Tennis NZ, actively supporting community development through sport. I’m committed to ensuring growth is matched by timely infrastructure investment - minimising impact and building a sustainable future. I’d value your support to continue this important work
Why I want to be elected
Work collaboratively with whoever is elected to listen, advocate and act on behalf of our community. We have significant growth and change happening across a huge board area and effective advocacy is needed to ensure new communities have adequate infrastructure. Smart decision making will be needed to achieve the investment needed in so many parts of the board area. It won't all happen at once due to financial constraints and honest communication will be essential to manage expectations.
My key skills and qualities
I have years of experience in community representation and advocacy and a strong network amongst other elected representatives in the city. I know the legislation that underpins the role and what can and cannot be acheived, and how best to make things happen. I am committed to evidence based decision making and have a finance background that informs my decision making. I believe in honest and transparent communication to build trust - I will not simply tell you what you want to hear.
My top three key issues
Sport and recreation opportunities for all ages contributes to a thriving and connected community. I believe that investing in community led initiatives builds strong relationships between council and community - not tell people what they need but listen and support where possible. E.g. if there is a passion for local events, tree planting, weed and pest control or stream cleanups we should support Support local businesses where appropriate - be mindful of the impact of council works
My position on key topics
Transport
Projects must be prioritised on the basis of need and be evidence based. One size does not fit all between the rural and urban parts of the city and some pragmatic flexibility should be permitted to maximise the number of projects that are enabled.
Water
Regulation needs to be fit for purpose and not overburden residents who manage their own water/wasterwater. Recent changes requiring inspections and septic tank emptying whether it is needed or not is hitting some responsible home owners financially who are not the ones causing the problem. Targeted inspections where there is complaint or evidence of harm would be more cost effective to residents and solve the problems that exist.
Built environment
There is significant frustration around the unintended consequences of development. For example limiting car parking provision, not sufficiently requiring developers to mitigate their impacts on existing communities by provision of road upgrades, parks and reserves and community facilities. I realise this is controlled via legislation but local govt is left to backfill at ratepayers expense. As the city sprawls we are underinvesting in maintaining what we already have and rates keep rising.
Natural environment
I support community led initiatives
Community
Authentic engagement is key to understanding the priorities of residents. We should respond to this rather than impose a standardised council view of the world.
Economic and cultural development
Businesses are ratepayers too - sometimes the actions of council impedes the ability of businesses to thrive. We should connect and engage with the business community to understand their concerns and try to ensure we are not the cause of them. Events are an area where both business and community can benefit and is something that the board can enable through funding. Again, the driver should be community not council led.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
The candidate has chosen not to provide a response.
Candidate's supporting links
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