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The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Norman Kenneth ROBINS
Candidate for Waiheke Local Board
Candidate statement
My background is as a Civil Engineer specialising in roads, traffic, and associated resource consenting with experience in planning hearings and the Environment Court. I now mainly work part time stoat trapping on Waiheke, plus occasional traffic reporting and landscaping/planting. I am a walker, runner, cyclist and driver, play golf and am involved in several resident groups restoring the vegetation in reserves. I've served on a School Board of Trustees and held various positions on club committees, and work well with many people. If elected I would be particularly keen to take on portfolios relating to transportation, resource consenting and environmental protection an enhancement. The forthcoming District Plan review will relate to many of these areas as well as housing provision. The Local Board needs to combat Auckland Council's and Auckland Transport's one size fits all approach, and to enable the amazing talent and energy our community possesses.
Why I want to be elected
I want to give back to the Waiheke community in return for living in such a great social and natural environment, and I feel I can offer some useful skills and commitment to maintaining and enhancing Waiheke's environment.
My key skills and qualities
I worked for 40 years as a civil engineer specialising in roads and traffic and related resource consenting. Experience and skills in transportation and resource management will be important as changes are made to transfer some of Auckland Transport's functions to Auckland Council resulting in more elected member involvement, with the review of the RMA and the District Plan also scheduled. I also have hands on experience in predator and pest weed management and voluntary groups.
My top three key issues
Housing availability and affordability which is presenting difficulties for young people and families to live on Waiheke, thus changing the island's demographics. Implementation of Waiheke's Climate Action Plan, which can not only improve our environment, food security, transport options and power affordability and resilience, but also act as an example to other communities of what can be achieved. Ensuring support for community led initiatives and activities.
My position on key topics
Transport
Greater Local Board influence on transport priorities and policies and on maintenance regimes. Development of safer walking and cycling facilities, particularly recognising the massive increase in resident and tourist cycling in recent years because of the impact of e-bikes. Exerting pressure for lower ferry fares for residents and promoting fair competition between operators.
Water
We have no reticulated water and very little reticulated wastewater and that will not change. We do however need ongoing education and suppport for residents to ensure their septic systems are well maintained or in some cases replaced to avoid contamination of the island's waterways.
Built environment
These are not relevant to Waiheke Local Board responsibilities.
Natural environment
Waiheke's Climate Action Plan sets out what is required for Waiheke. Financial support of environmental initiatives is critical, especially for community groups. Achieving better protection for Tikapa Moana is critical through marine protection areas and opposing destructive fishing practices.
Community
Community grouos and activities play a major role in bringing people together and fostering community relationships. This includes sports, tree planting and pest weed removal, predator control (rats, stoats etc), cultural and arts activities and community education. Financial support for these activities is key.
Economic and cultural development
Waiheke needs a stable economy but not necessariiy a growing one. Promoting tourism during the shoulder and off peak seasons is important, but tourism should never be allowed to impair Waiheke's casual and beautiful environment.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Waiheke Local Board already supports activities at Piritahi Marae and should continue to do so as it is a valued part of the community. Continuing development of links and communication with Ngati Paoa as tangata whenua is also fundamental. I agree with the principle of growing the Auckland Future to respond to climate related events and threats but personally think Ports of Auckland should no t be sold off.
Candidate's supporting links
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