Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Zach STARK
Candidate for Rodney Local Board (Kumeū Subdivision)
Candidate statement
I’m Zach Stark. A father to two young kids and the owner of a local digital communications business. I’m putting my hand up for the Local Board because I want to play my small part in making things better. Having lived in flood-affected areas like Hawke's Bay, I know how vital flood resilience and practical infrastructure are for rural communities like ours. I’m also passionate about sharing local stories and perspectives because I believe that when we listen to each other, we make smarter, more grounded decisions. This area is a special place and I have loved visiting over the years; seeing the progress that has been made. Now we live out here, I’d be honoured to help represent our home with honesty, energy, and a commitment to listening, learning, and acting on residents voices as we work side-by-side with council for a better Rodney.
Why I want to be elected
As a parent to a young family, I want my kids to grow up in a place with safe roads, strong local services, healthy green spaces, and opportunities close to home. I believe in listening first, asking good questions, and using common sense to find practical solutions. With my background in storytelling, I can help make sure local voices are heard and understood, so decisions reflect the real needs and aspirations of the people who live here.
My key skills and qualities
Running my own business has taught me how to balance vision with practicality, manage resources wisely, and adapt quickly when challenges arise. I also know the importance of listening to customers—just as I will listen to our community—so solutions truly meet people’s needs. My goal is to bring that same responsiveness, creativity, and accountability into local governance.
My top three key issues
Rain - With flooding becoming more commonplace, infrastructure takes time and capital but education and preparation are where we can make a difference now. Roads - The lifelines of our district—connecting communities, supporting local business, and keeping us safe especially with our limited public transport. Recreation - Active, connected communities are healthier, happier, and stronger—and everyone should have access to spaces that encourage play, sport, and time in our beautiful area.
My position on key topics
Transport
My priority is to create a safe, connected transport network that works for everyone. That means fixing and maintaining our roads to a higher standard, improving public transport so it’s reliable and accessible, and expanding safe walking and cycling options so people have real choices for getting around. By planning smarter and investing wisely, we can reduce congestion, support local business, and give families more time together instead of being stuck in traffic.
Water
We need to manage Auckland’s water as the precious resource it is. That means protecting water quality by reducing pollution in our waterways, investing in infrastructure to handle growth and climate impacts, and using stormwater and wastewater systems more efficiently. We also need to plan for future supply through smart conservation, new technology, and sustainable sourcing—so our communities have clean, reliable water for generations to come.
Built environment
Auckland’s growth is inevitable, but it needs to be well-planned so our infrastructure keeps pace and our character isn’t lost. I support development that delivers affordable, quality housing, strengthens our transport and community facilities, and respects the heritage and natural spaces that make Rodney unique. Growth should serve people first—building communities that are connected, sustainable, and proud of their identity.
Natural environment
We need to support community-led restoration projects, control pests, and preserve native habitats. Climate resilience means investing in flood prevention, sustainable land use, and preparing our infrastructure for more extreme weather. By working with iwi, experts, and residents, we can safeguard our environment for future generations while enjoying the natural beauty that makes Rodney special.
Community
Building strong, connected communities means listening first and making sure everyone has a voice—whether you live in a busy town or a rural area. I’ll support improving local services and facilities that meet real needs, like parks, libraries, and youth programs, and encourage partnerships between the council, community groups, and iwi. Fostering inclusion, accessibility, and opportunities for everyone will help boost wellbeing and create places people are proud to call home.
Economic and cultural development
I want to support economic growth that benefits everyone in Rodney by backing local businesses, especially family-run ones. Promoting our cultural heritage adds unique value that attracts visitors and strengthens community pride. By encouraging innovation, sustainable industries, and partnerships, we can create more jobs, vibrant town centres, and a thriving local economy that respects our past while building for the future.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
For Māori outcomes, I believe in genuine partnership and respect for Te Tiriti o Waitangi as our founding document. When it comes to stormwater, past board members have made great progress, and I want to build on that by making sure the most effective services keep thriving. As we've been flooded before, I’m also passionate about promoting “old-world” disaster recovery skills—practical knowledge that remains crucial, even as technology advances and sometimes makes us forget their importance.
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.