Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Uzra Casuri BALOUCH
Candidate for Upper Harbour Local Board
Independent
Candidate statement
Committed, effective and experienced advocate for Upper Harbour, relentlessly focused on your priorities and delivering these for you. Local resident, Justice of Peace, MSc.App.Psychology, current Deputy Chairperson and your representative on Council for nine years, I will continue to work hard to advocate for safer communities, safer intersections, footpaths, accessible travel on PT, an efficient transport network, more open green space, upgraded tracks, skate parks, basketball courts, community facilities for youth, families and seniors, a resilient local economy, protection and enhancement of our natural environment and support for our ecological volunteers. I championed installation of water fountains and shade-sails in parks, streetlights on Herald Island Causeway, bus stops/shelters in Whenuapai and fought to save North Harbour Stadium. I continue to advocate for affordable rates, Westpark Marina, acquisition of Bomb Point, Wasp Hangar, and Albany Library. I am asking for your support this election to continue to serve you. Text/call: 0211046287
Why I want to be elected
I am seeking election because I am deeply committed to building a connected, thriving and inclusive Upper Harbour. As Deputy Chair, I have seen how local decisions shape lives from parks to transport. I bring strategic insight, business expertise, prudent financial management, integrity and a commitment to ensuring our decisions reflect the voices of our residents and that we invest wisely in infrastructure, the environment and our communities. Lets shape a future we are proud of, together.
My key skills and qualities
Twenty years of community, business and governance experience, prioritising community needs. Excellent understanding of local government processes, budgets and funding allocations. Monitoring progress of local projects to deliver for our communities. Expertise in building relationships with diverse groups across Upper Harbour. Ability to lead and collaborate with other members, staff and stakeholders. Integrity, accountability, cultural competence and a deep commitment to public service.
My top three key issues
I am passionate about smart growth, I want well planned developments that enhance livability & not just density. I am committed to protecting our natural environment, supporting our volunteers and focusing on advocacy for more open space. I believe in investing in spaces and services e.g. the new Albany Library and a new Community Hub in Whenuapai that foster community connection and learning and support our youth, families and seniors because strong communities are the heart of Upper Harbour.
My position on key topics
Transport
Well connected roads and an efficient transport network, (connect Joshua Carder and Squadron Drive, Craig's Way and Scott Road) Safe intersections at the Avenue, Upper Harbour Drive, Unsworth Drive, Albany Highway, Lonely Track Road, Brigham Creek Road, Clark Road Kea - crossings for safety around schools Footpaths for Kauri Road and Puriri Road Focus on active transport modes and ferries. Advocate for accessible travel on public transport so no one feels excluded is extremely important for me.
Water
Advocate to Watercare for a reliable supply of safe drinking water to our growing communities. Ensure council retreats from areas which are prone to flooding and does not allow any building there. Improve water quality and integrate storm water management with urban planning to strengthen Auckland's resilience to impacts of adverse weather events. Collect and treat wastewater and ensure infrastructure keeps pace with urban growth and environment standards to protect public health.
Built environment
Auckland needs to do density better, focus should be on smart growth and livability and not just density. Planning for community, social and physical infrastructure should happen prior to development in an area. Government should offer incentives and tax breaks to developers who build affordable homes. Our youth are leaving in droves and we urgently need to build affordable family friendly homes to incentivise them to stay. Auckland's unique built heritage must be maintained and preserved.
Natural environment
Protect and enhance our natural environment by continuing to support and fund ecological programmes and our volunteers. In Upper Harbour we are lucky we have the highest number of volunteer hours (approximately 17,000 hours) in council reserves in Auckland. A testament to the caliber of our exceptional volunteers who give so much of their time to maintain and nurture our natural spaces. Plant more trees, eradicate pest plants & animals. Minimise waste, reduce pollution and clean up our streams.
Community
I will build strong connected communities by supporting inclusive spaces, local initiatives and events. I will advocate for well managed, accessible infrastructure and ensure public services from community hubs to libraries are responsive, future ready and community led. I will champion well being through targeted investment in youth programmes and green spaces because thriving communities start with connection, opportunity and a healthy environment.
Economic and cultural development
Advocate to the Auckland Development office to secure concerts, sporting events and art exhibitions to stimulate the local economy. Promote the North Harbour Stadium as a venue for signature events like Pacifica and Diwali and Lantern Festival to strengthen and celebrate our unique community identity. Provide funding for community arts and culture grants to support grass roots creativity across Upper Harbour. Support and promote Business North Harbour area as a destination for doing business.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Maori Outcomes: Support cultural revitalisation and explore establishing relationships with mana whenua and mataawaka. Ports of Auckland: Support the new public waterfront space becoming available for the city and improved ferry services Auckland Future Fund: Advocate for transparent governance to build intergenerational equity and financial resilience for Auckland. Supporting Storm Recovery: Advocate for enhancing flood resilience, community preparedness and equitable recovery support.