Ngā kaitono poari ā-rohe 2025Local board candidates 2025

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Future West

Candidate statement

I've lived out west nearly all my life. I grew up in Laingholm and built our family home in Bethells Beach. I love the Waitākere Ranges, they're part of who I am. I'm standing for re-election because I want our local board to be stronger, relevant, and get its fair share. I've worked around local government for over 35 years, I know the system, how it works, and doesn't. The super city hasn't delivered for us. Our foothills, coastlines, and neighbourhoods are incredible, and they need real support and investment in maintenance. My focus is improving local transport and drainage, more funding for our communities and local arts, and protecting our one of a kind environment. As a former Bethells Fire Chief, I'll keep backing Surf, Fire, Coastguard and Emergency volunteers. Vote for someone with deep roots, real world know how, and the passion to keep pushing for the west.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Candidate statement

Our region deserves more vision and ambition. I have the passion, skills and experience to make it happen. My Vision: I support initiatives that boost the region’s economy and creative sector. I will advocate for transport and walkway solutions that better interconnect neighbourhoods, shops and parks. I will demand effective, and inclusive, longterm infrastructure planning and action. Our world-unique natural environment will be prioritised, nurtured and enjoyed by all. My skills: I have a record of bringing good people together to make things happen. I’ve delivered successful, award-winning projects locally and at Auckland Museum, Te Papa and Corban Estate Arts Centre. Having lived in the area for over 30 years, I understand its strengths and challenges, and its potential to be the best place anywhere. My promise: I will work with laser focus on your behalf. I’ll innovate, collaborate and apply pressure on central council to deliver your needs. www.dianeblomfield.nz

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

I am standing because I bring 35 years of experience as a Certifying Drainlayer, licenced builder, and dedicated beekeeper. I'm passionate about our environment and proud resident of the foothills of the Waitakere Ranges. If elected I shall bring my extensive drainage and building experience to ensure maintenance, and upgrading of our infrastructure is kept up to date. We have all seen the damage to homes and property caused by the anniversary floods. For the future I believe the Local Board must give special attention to storm water maintenance to protect our homes and roadways. I understand that every ratepayer's dollar is hard-earned. We need to be transparent about where money is being spent. Focusing on essential services rather than wasting resources on vanity projects and ineffective speed bumps. I am committed to working hard for our community and ensuring that our infrastructure meets the need of all residents.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

I live in Glen Eden and have a background in nursing and social service management. For the last 6 years I have been privileged to be a representative on the local board working with many groups to help them achieve their aims and helping people navigate the complexities of council. I stand for- Community First- Prioritising local voices in Council decisions. I will work for: Action on basic maintenance; Initiatives to make our town centres safer; Protecting the natural environment; Funding for community facilities, improving our parks and getting more walking tracks open; Community resilience and supporting or amazing volunteers; Better public transport and infrastructure; Parking solutions in our intensified areas. I believe in genuine representation and leadership from the grassroots that helps protect the unique character of our area whilst ensuring our community thrives. If you want a strong advocate working for you, vote Clayton.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

I have lived and worked in Titirangi with my family for the last 26 years, and have previously lived in Glen Eden. I stand for common sense and the sensible spending of your hard earned money. No pet projects, just providing the services that council should be providing: Rubbish Collection; Drains and culverts cleaned regularly; Debris and blockages removed from waterways; Footpaths and Tracks open and maintained to standard; Clean streets, Parks and Community spaces; Assisting community groups and clubs. And listening to the local people who know there areas well. Now is Not the time for nice to haves. I am experienced in business, am hard working and committed to my community. Please Vote for me and my WestWards Team.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Future West

Candidate statement

I’m a dedicated local leader, community advocate, and proud Westie. I believe in thriving communities, transparent local decision-making, and protecting the places we love. I will champion accessible, responsive local decision-making that is grounded in community values, advocate for improved urban design, resilient infrastructure, and continued protection of our environment. My professional experience spans the education, science, and manufacturing sectors, encompassing product development, research, capital projects, educator and specialist support, as well as leadership roles. I bring 15 years of hands-on governance and community leadership experience across the education and not-for-profit sectors. I serve as Presiding Member of a school board and have held governance roles at local, regional, and national levels within Playcentre Aotearoa, including as Co-President. These roles have strengthened my ability to lead strategically, collaborate effectively, and deliver meaningful outcomes. I’m committed to connecting our people and championing our place. Vote Michelle Hutton and Future West.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Candidate statement

Having had a life-time connection with West Auckland I am a passionate supporter of the local community and all that is on offer to residents and visitors. I have had 15+ years' experience working within local government and have worked closely with Local Boards across Auckland. Having two primary age children (attending Titirangi Primary School) has connected me with the wide range of unique experiences that are on offer across the Waitakere Ranges Local Board area. As an independent candidate I believe I can be a voice for the whole community and will strongly advocate for building on and improving the services on offer that make our communities thrive.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Candidate statement

I have lived in the Waitakere Ranges for 45 years - because my wife and I love the area. Prior to retiring my work life was as a Chef for six years then as a Commercial Accountant for 27 years. (Retired CA membership) My retirement interests are: family, dog ownership, home-handyman projects, keeping fit, playing golf (will resume when my knee replacement settles), and following all sports. I am interested in all Council activities with particular concerns about Council Spending - Do we have good procedures to approve and control Council projects eg How can we spend $250,000 on a roadway speed hump? - then dig it up within a year and how can we spend $800,000 on a public toilet and why do we expensively 'tinker' with controlling foliage fringing our roads - (Use a chainsaw rather than scissors).

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Working with Ken Turner and Sunil Kaushal and the WestWards Team. I have lived in the Waitakere Ranges since I was a child. On my first day in Huia I got lost in the bush behind the house and discovered my place to stand. I am proud mother of 1, grandmother of 2 and great-grandmother of 3. I have affiliated myself with the Westwards because we are of one mind, advocating for increased funding for road maintenance, our parks and community facilities. That community initiatives must be practicable and endorsed by the communities these initiatives will serve. We are lucky to have so unique an environment, this precious resource has given me so much, it’s time I pay it forward. Huia and the Waitakere’s is my place to stand, as it is for many and it needs to be open for us and our children’s children to find their place.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Working with Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushai, and the WestWards Team. 35 Years a West Aucklander, family man, from the workshop floor to business owner, currently sales rep for a local company. Manufacturing has taught me how to build things that work and stand the test of time. Witnessing Auckland Council in action has motivated me to get involved. It cries poor and proposes substantial rate increases, yet its spending goes on unabated. This is financial negligence! Let's Keep It Simple By Focusing On Core Business! To build thriving communities we need successful local businesses. The Council must play its part and become fiscally responsible. This means getting back to the basics and focusing on core services. I’m all for our Local Board getting back to properly maintaining drains, parks, roads, and rubbish. I stand for community-led, local business, genuine transparency and consultation. Please vote for me and our WestWards Team.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Independent

Candidate statement

I am the fourth Generation of my family to reside in the Waitakere Ranges. I believe it's time we stop being the forgotten area. We have to do something different to make our region heard. It's not ok there is no investment in our region, that we aren't promoted as a must do destination, that our roads are still impassable, that our buildings leak It's not ok that when we lost a major international event due to Covid and our council hasn't gotten it back. I helped build one of most successful youth groups and programs working in our community. I have put my heart into making our community better. I believe in strong financial management, taking action, commonsense decision making. If you vote the same way you will get the same result. I am 18, I know we need to do something different. Vote for something better.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

I’m seeking re-election because West Auckland deserves leadership that stays true to its people. I’ve stood alongside Ken Turner, Sunil Kushal, and Westwards to champion practical, common-sense decisions that reflect our community, not impose on it. Our tracks, parks, and public spaces must remain open and accessible to all, free from exclusivity. I’ve built businesses, worked with local groups, and tackled real-world challenges, cutting through bureaucracy to deliver results. My priorities remain clear: supporting small businesses and tradespeople, ensuring transport serves everyone, and promoting economic development that helps, not hinders. I believe in transparency, accountability, and a council that answers to residents, not party lines. West Auckland deserves better, more connected, confident, and thriving. Let’s keep building progress together. Re-elect Linda P. Find out more: www.lindap.nz

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Future West

Candidate statement

I am seeking the privilege of your vote for the Future West candidates and me. I have lived most of my life out west, my children have grown up here and I have run my law practice here. I was previously a Waitakere City Councillor and I have served five terms on the local board. I have also been involved in significant community projects such as Lopdell House restoration and the construction of the Whau Coastal Walkway. The work is great, trying to make our piece of paradise better one decision at a time. The things that I prioritise are protecting our environment, supporting the arts and making sure our communities are cared for and enhanced. And we need to prepare for the future to face the challenges that our city faces. The west is a special place and Council has a role in making sure that this continues.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Candidate statement

Qureshi, Rizwan Ahmed. For a Thriving, Safe Waitākere As an IT graduate and an active community advocate, I’m committed to making Waitākere prosperous, connected, and crime-free. The Local Board plays a vital role in shaping our parks, libraries, local services, and community safety, and I’ll ensure your voice is heard. With my tech expertise, I’ll push for smarter solutions. Better digital access, efficient services, and innovative approaches to tackle local issues. I’ll advocate for: Safer communities – Supporting crime prevention initiatives and youth engagement; Stronger infrastructure – Upgrading local facilities and sustainable development; Economic growth – Backing small businesses and job opportunities; I believe in transparent, proactive leadership. Let’s work together to keep Waitākere a vibrant place to live, work, and thrive. Vote Qureshi, Rizwan Ahmed for fresh energy and real results!

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Future West

Candidate statement

42 years ago, my wife and I bought our house amongst the Kauri on the South Titirangi Peninsula, raised two Children here, now four Grandchildren come to stay and play. We all enjoy walking the tracks, the artistic communities and visiting local cafes. I have worked as a Chartered Accountant, Financial Controller, and Company Director. If elected I will bring these skills to the job. On weekends, I set trap lines for Rats and Possums and work with environmental groups. I am committed to preserving and enhancing our environment. The Anniversary Weekend deluge showed the importance of developing resilience in the Ranges, for people, property, tracks, roads and services. If elected my goal is to improve our resilience. The Council can be run more efficiently, and this will mean we can do more for the environment and for our people. Please vote for me and the Future West team.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Candidate statement

My name is Iuliana Rodinciuc, and I am proud to stand for the Waitākere Ranges Local Board. I have been a New Zealand resident for 21 years, living in the same beautiful home in our community for 14 years. I hold three academic degrees, including a Master’s in Education from the University of Auckland, and bring both knowledge and dedication to supporting the growth and wellbeing of our local area. As a business owner and a registered, qualified teacher, I understand first-hand the challenges and achievements of running a business in New Zealand. I am passionate about supporting families, especially new and immigrant families like my own, ensuring that both children and adults have access to opportunities to thrive through education. I am committed to serving our community with empathy, integrity, and practical solutions, helping the Waitākere Ranges remain a place where every family feels supported and connected.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Future West

Candidate statement

A fresh face for Waitākere, but no stranger to council. I’ve been asked by friends and colleagues to bring my wealth of governance experience and excellent track record to our ward. I’ve worked in both private and public sectors across education, housing, and conservation. On council, I've led portfolios across transport, environment, and community development, where I’ve championed integration of climate action into decision making. From how we plan our neighbourhoods to how we strengthen local resilience. If elected, I’ll make sure your rates deliver you value. I’ll defend the Ranges Heritage Area (Te Wao Nui-a-Tiriwa), support the Dark Sky initiative and making our beaches swim-safe. I’ll advocate for better upkeep of our roads and cheaper transport options for everyone. With your support, I’ll be your voice for a Waitākere that’s safer, more equitable, and genuinely great for all who live here. Vote for me and the Future West team.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Candidate statement

Tēnā koutou kātoa. I'm running to be a Waitākere Ranges Local Board member, and have one request: Don't Vote For Me. So, why put myself forward for a job I don't want? Because I told a room of 20 people I was going do it, and when I say I'm going to do something, I do it, even if I don't want to do it. I'm a busy father, husband and television director, so I don't have time for this. If I won, I'd be spending less time with my cute 5-year-old daughter. If you vote for me, you'll break her heart. I also don't have the necessary skillset. Apparently it involves lots of reading official documents. The only things I read are Young Adult novels set in post-apocalyptic futures. So don't vote for me. This isn't reverse psychology. I'm serious. Don't vote for me. I don't want this job.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

Future West

Candidate statement

Kia ora, I’m Hannah - a proud Westie and long-time Piha local. I’m standing for the Waitākere Ranges Local Board because, like many of you, I felt frustrated after the 2023 cyclone. Our roads, drains, and communities have been under-resourced for too long- and the supercity model just hasn’t delivered for the West. I’ve spent 20 years working in programme management and community engagement, including with grassroots groups, new migrants, and the disability community. I’m currently the Accessibility Programme Coordinator for the Auckland Arts Festival, and I’m passionate about inclusion, transparency, and decisions made with our communities, not for us. As a mum, partner to a park ranger, and someone who’s called Piha home for over 20 years, I love this place and want to help protect it for future generations. Let’s build a stronger, fairer, more resilient future for the West - together. Vote Hannah Slade. Vote Future West.

Waitākere Ranges Local Board

WestWards

Candidate statement

Working with Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushal and the WestWards Team, I grew up out west in Parau and now live in Glen Eden, with a strong connection to the Waitākere Ranges and our local community. I worked on the Rainforest Express from 2007 until it closed in 2013, which added to my passion for the area. These days, I love getting out into the bush with my dog Gecko and exploring both the local and wider West Auckland region. I’m a strong advocate for reopening the tramping tracks in the Waitākeres and ensuring these provide genuine wilderness experiences for everyone to enjoy. I care deeply about properly maintaining local infrastructure - roads, drains, and public spaces that make a real difference to our daily lives. I’m dedicated to restoring local decision-making in Council, giving local boards the power to hire local contractors. Together with the WestWards Team, keeping it real.