Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
James PEMBERTON
Candidate for Rodney Local Board (Northern Rodney Subdivision)
Candidate statement
As a local resident and father of two primary-aged children, I’m committed to practical solutions that benefit our community. I enjoy fishing, hunting, and boating, and I value the outdoors and the lifestyle our area provides. My priorities include improving boating facilities, reducing waste, and ensuring smarter, more efficient use of public funds. I support the targeted removal of trees around power lines to reduce power outages during storms, and I oppose blanket culling of wild deer in our area — they can and should be managed responsibly by hunters. These are commonsense approaches that reflect local knowledge and respect for the environment. I believe our local board should focus on services that work, infrastructure that lasts, and decisions that put ratepayers first. I'm standing to bring greater accountability, transparency, and practical thinking to our local board.
Why I want to be elected
I want to be elected to ensure our community’s voice is heard and that money is spent where it makes a real difference. Too often, funds are lost in process and bureaucracy instead of delivering visible improvements. I will focus on practical outcomes — from safe, reliable infrastructure to well-maintained facilities — while protecting what makes our area unique. My aim is simple: accountability, common sense, and results our community can see and be proud of.
My key skills and qualities
I bring strong leadership and practical problem-solving from a career at sea and in small business. As a Master Mariner, I managed high-risk operations in the oil and gas industry, overseeing complex projects with planning, risk management, and decisive action. I’m approachable, a good listener, and committed to accountability, transparency, and delivering visible, positive results that benefit our entire community.
My top three key issues
I am passionate about reliable infrastructure and safety, preventing storm-related power outages, and keeping boating and community facilities safe and well-maintained. I support responsible environmental and wildlife management, protecting resources while allowing sustainable use. I also want accountable, effective spending, ensuring ratepayer money delivers visible, positive results and avoids waste in bureaucracy.
My position on key topics
Transport
Hosting the Rally of New Zealand in Rodney North is great, but it highlights how poorly Auckland’s road budget is spent when such an event takes place just minutes from State Highway 1. I’ll push for our area to receive transport infrastructure upgrades using the hard-earned money we contribute. No more cycle lanes should be built until the basics are properly covered.
Water
Most residents in Rodney North are self-sustaining, relying on rainwater tanks and septic systems. The water surcharge should not apply to rural properties. Auckland Council and Watercare must respect this, not use rural residents as a source of income. Stormwater is the main issue; swales and waterways must be properly maintained to prevent localised flooding and infrastructure damage.
Built environment
Housing has been prioritised without proper planning for infrastructure. The wastewater plant discharging into the sea, which devastated the Mahurangi oyster industry, is a clear example of poor planning. Auckland must ensure development is matched with adequate infrastructure, protecting both the environment and local industries while accommodating growth responsibly.
Natural environment
The targeted rate for Natural Environment and Climate Change is an opportunist money grab that delivers little for Rodney North. Rural communities already have a strong connection to and knowledge of the environment. They don’t need guidance from council—they need support, and their experience and voice must be respected in managing our natural spaces.
Community
I will focus on maintaining and upgrading local services and facilities to meet real community needs. By listening to residents and supporting local groups, I’ll ensure money is spent where it has visible impact. Practical, accountable decisions will improve safety, accessibility, and wellbeing, building stronger, connected communities that benefit everyone.
Economic and cultural development
I want to support local businesses by cutting red tape, improving infrastructure, and encouraging initiatives that strengthen the local economy. I will protect and promote cultural heritage by recognising our history and celebrating local identity, creating a thriving, resilient economy that benefits current and future generations.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Well-maintained infrastructure delivers the greatest benefit to the community. We should not face standstills or massive clean-ups after bad weather. Council must do its part to keep public infrastructure fit for purpose, ensuring safety, reliability, and resilience for all residents.
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.