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
I have been a happy resident of the beautiful Upper Harbour Local Board area for over 20 years. After completing my Masters education from Massey University Albany, I have gained valuable experience in Management and Human Resources alongside some hospitality work I did during my student days. I also enjoy playing tennis & squash regularly-though my results don’t always reflect the effort. Upper Harbour needs safer and more reliable public transport and practical parking solutions. Our area is home to more than 200 parks, but more can be done to keep them well maintained, tidy and raise awareness of these wonderful green spaces amongst our residents. While Albany Library offers good facilities, there's a growing need for more mobile and boutique libraries to better serve our expanding and diverse community. This is my debut election, and I sincerely hope my efforts, intentions, and your support make it a good innings.
Why I want to be elected
Better and safer Public transport is what we urgently need. Changing multiple buses within many parts of Upper Harbour to travel within the area is not passenger-friendly. I would push for more frequent, reliable, and practicable bus services. Many of our beautiful parks now face the issue of litter. More can be done to ensure a 'literally' cleaner, greener environment. Installing more outdoor exercise equipment in our parks, is something I would try to get done.
My key skills and qualities
Being associated with Sports all my life, being a Team player comes naturally to me. I have been fortunate to have lived in the scenic Upper Harbour Local Board area for more than two decades , that also means I have experienced many of issues facing our growing area first hand. After completing my Masters education from Massey University Albany, I have gained valuable experience in Management and Human Resources which I know will assist me if I get the opportunity to be on the board.
My top three key issues
A safe, frequent and reliable public transport system will immensely help our area. It would mean less congestion, support the local economy and be good for the environment . Libraries are an excellent and enriching asset for any community. Our area though just has the one Albany Library. Surely there is a need for more boutique and mobile libraries in the area. Our parks can be equipped with more covered seating to make them more user friendly. Also better signage is required around parks.
My position on key topics
Transport
We require more buses that frequently connect us directly ( without having to change buses) to the Albany Bus Station, as that is the major transport centre for our area. There should also be a more visible security presence around our buses and bus stations. Our footpaths need to be tidier, well-maintained, better signposted, and surely better lit in certain instances. The bike parking facilities available can be increased and also better advertised and made more attractive.
Water
We have to create more awareness around not wasting water throughout the year. We have to ensure new developments are built with proper stormwater systems that will be able to withstand the growth predicted in the future. Stricter action should be taken and publicised against any discharges of wastewater that do not conform to the rules. The public should have easier access to report any perceived shortcomings in this space and also in the quality of our beautiful waterways.
Built environment
All kinds of housing should be encouraged as it gives people more choice and increases the supply of new houses, both essential in ensuring a more balanced, accessible, and aspirational housing market. The increases in housing stock will only be successful if it takes into account the important role good infrastructure around them like transport, water facilities and access to open spaces plays in the long-term viability of the projects.
Natural environment
We have to create more awareness of our beautiful green natural spaces, but also ensure they are not harmed by any development that diminishes their size or scope. Community-led conservation groups have to be given more support, and more can be done to attract an increased number of volunteers across the board for them. Better public transport, more awareness to make waste management better, and drives to promote energy efficiency will help us ensure lower emissions in our surroundings.
Community
Local Markets, events, and initiatives that bring diverse communities together should be encouraged and be better promoted. Productive relationships should be built and strengthened with local community groups and sports clubs. Youth and senior citizens should be encouraged to give input and feel a part of the Board's decisions. We must initiate and back programs that assist the community in the area of mental health. Clean, properly sign-posted and well-lit green spaces are also essential.
Economic and cultural development
Public spaces like our libraries should be used more to promote the history of our surroundings, this will also create more awareness amongst locals and visitors alike of the area they are in or wish to travel to. Our diverse communities should be given more platforms to showcase their heritage and practices- ex Can a Diwali celebration also include performances by a Chinese Cultural group? We should work closely with local business associations and give them more tools to run local initiatives.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
The Port must be managed in a way that has economic benefits but also fulfils its duties towards the environment. If more of the waterfront can be opened to the public, it would lead to benefits for the local economy. A continued strong partnership with local Māori-led environmental programs and youth-centric activities is essential. More concise and practical steps should be shared with residents regarding dealing with emergencies; highlighted bullet points should be included in communications.
Candidate's supporting links
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