Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Mark DENNIS
Candidate for Rodney Local Board (Southern Kaipara Subdivision)
Candidate statement
I’m seeking re-election to the Rodney Local Board. Over the past three years, I’ve delivered real, local results – safer roads, extended footpaths, upgraded playgrounds, and strong investment in renewing our halls and sports facilities. I’ve worked hard to support community groups, local sports clubs, and the volunteers who help our towns thrive. Local youth have benefited from free mentoring and family events held in our parks. I’m proud to serve as a local Justice of the Peace, a trustee of the Helensville District Health Trust, and a committee member of the Helensville Tennis Club. I believe in practical, common-sense leadership that puts community before politics. I’m committed to protecting our rural and coastal character, advocating for infrastructure that matches growth, and ensuring the board operates maturely and effectively. If you want a board member who listens, works hard, and delivers real results, I’d be honoured to have your vote.
Why I want to be elected
I’m standing for the Rodney Local Board to ensure our communities continue to have a strong Local Voice at the Council table. I’ll fight to fix our Rates, build safer Roads, more Footpaths, upgraded Parks and Halls, and keep our Rates in our Towns. I believe in practical, common-sense leadership that supports local sports clubs, volunteers, and families while protecting our rural and coastal character. I’m committed to listening, working hard, and delivering real results for Rodney.
My key skills and qualities
I bring leadership, integrity, and a strong community focus to the Rodney Local Board. As a Justice of the Peace, community trustee, volunteer, and having spent the last 3 years as a Local Board member, I have proven governance experience and a commitment to fairness. I’m practical, results-driven, and connected to our communities.
My top three key issues
My priorities are, providing strong leadership on the Local Board, securing more funding to support our townships, and delivering better facilities for our families and youth. I’m passionate about creating safe, welcoming spaces where young people can thrive and families feel connected, supported, and proud to call Rodney home.
My position on key topics
Transport
My priorities are securing more funding for roading, both to maintain existing roads and to seal our rural roads, expanding public transport options to better connect our communities, and building more footpaths so children can walk safely to school. These improvements will make Rodney safer, stronger, and better connected for families and future generations.
Water
Rodney needs major investment in our stormwater network, and I want local contractors used where possible to deliver this work. We know our waterways and know where funding is best placed. As our population grows, we must ensure our drinking water and wastewater systems keep up with demand.
Built environment
I believe Auckland’s urban development needs to be slowed so infrastructure can catch up with growth. Housing must be supported by proper investment in roads, water, and community facilities. At the same time, we must protect our heritage. In Helensville, preserving the town’s historic character is essential, ensuring future development respects and enhances our unique identity.
Natural environment
Rodney’s natural spaces are central to our identity, and we must protect and enhance them for future generations. I support initiatives that restore biodiversity, safeguard waterways, and strengthen climate resilience. By investing in sustainable practices and working with local communities and Iwi, we can protect our rural and coastal landscapes while ensuring Rodney remains a healthy, thriving place to live.
Community
I plan to build strong, connected communities by supporting local clubs, volunteers, and events that bring people together. I will push for better facilities, safer parks, and improved local services that meet the needs of families and youth. By investing in community spaces and ensuring fair funding for our townships, we can strengthen wellbeing, create pride of place, and make Rodney a safer, healthier, and more vibrant community for everyone.
Economic and cultural development
My vision is to boost Rodney’s economy by supporting local businesses, encouraging investment, and creating opportunities for jobs and growth. Strong town centers and thriving small enterprises are the backbone of our community. Working alongside local Iwi, I also want to promote our cultural heritage, celebrating both our history and diversity, so that Rodney is not only a great place to live and work, but also a destination that attracts visitors and strengthens local pride.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I believe local mana whenua are too often overlooked by Local Council. We need to ensure we walk side by side with iwi, respecting the heritage, values, and knowledge they bring to the table. Partnering meaningfully with mana whenua will strengthen decision-making and help protect Rodney’s unique cultural and environmental heritage for future generations.
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.