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Caitlin WILSON

Caitlin WILSON

Candidate for Waitematā Local Board

City Vision

Candidate statement

I am young. I know that our young people are leaving Waitematā because they don’t see a future here. I want to change that. I will help create a Waitematā where people want to live, work, and stay. I know firsthand what it’s like to be a student, renter, and worker navigating this city. With a Bachelor’s degree in Politics, International Relations, and Communications from the University of Auckland, and through my work at Auckland City Mission, I’ve seen challenges from housing to transport, but there are opportunities for real, people-led change. I’m committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and making sure every voice is heard in local decision-making. If elected, I’ll prioritise vibrancy in the city centre and suburbs, better public transport, and strong advocacy on homelessness, so we can build a Waitematā where everyone thrives. Vote for me and the energetic City Vision team.

Why I want to be elected

Everyone deserves to feel represented and have local government be accessible to them. I’m here not just to represent young people, but everyone who feels unheard in Waitematā. As a renter, worker, and recent graduate with experience in community organising and my mahi at Auckland City Mission, I know the challenges of housing, transport, and climate change. With City Vision, I’ll work for a connected, inclusive Waitematā where everyone can thrive.

My key skills and qualities

I bring governance and grassroots organising experience, from leading multiple community groups and serving on the Social Change Collective board. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Politics, International Relations, and Communications, and my work at Auckland City Mission gives me insight into homelessness and the power of community-led solutions. With lived experience as a renter, worker, and recent student, I know the challenges we face and will ensure local decisions reflect our communities.

My top three key issues

Housing & Homelessness: I’ve seen the realities of insecure housing and homelessness through my work at Auckland City Mission. I’ll advocate for secure, affordable homes and policies to make homelessness rare. Vibrant Public Spaces: Waitematā should feel alive with streets, parks, and events where all generations can connect. Transport & Connectivity: Having lived, studied, and worked in Waitematā, I know how vital safe, affordable walking, cycling, and public transport are for everyone.

My position on key topics

  • Transport

    Waitematā can have safe, affordable, and reliable transport. I’ll advocate for better public transport, safe cycling routes, and walkable streets, reduce traffic in residential areas, enforce safe speeds around schools, and make it easier for students, workers, and families to move around the city every day.

  • Water

    I’ll advocate for safe, sustainable water supply and effective wastewater management. We must protect our beaches and the Hauraki Gulf, invest in stormwater systems to prevent flooding, and ensure Waitematā’s water infrastructure is resilient and reliable.

  • Built environment

    I support more homes near where people work, study, and play, with well-planned, livable development that meets community needs. I back Council’s Housing First approach to reduce homelessness, and I will enhance and protect heritage, especially Māori heritage, while keeping our communities liveable, connected, and vibrant.

  • Natural environment

    I’ll work to expand green spaces and enhance biodiversity. Parks, community gardens, and green corridors can cool streets, manage floodwaters, and support wildlife. I’ll also advocate for protecting the Hauraki Gulf and our waterways.

  • Community

    I support fully funding Waitematā’s public spaces, parks, libraries, and facilities, ensuring they are accessible to all. I’ll help create welcoming spaces for families, young people, and communities to connect, relax, and thrive, and ensure equity in services and opportunities.

  • Economic and cultural development

    I’ll support local businesses, youth, and Māori-led initiatives, as well as arts and cultural programmes. Vibrant events, thriving town centres, and investment in creative industries will make Waitematā a city that attracts and keeps people.

  • Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori

    I will uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi and ensure Māori have a genuine partnership in local government, including supporting the right to direct representation. Council must take an intergenerational approach to decision-making, keep public assets in community hands, and use the Future Fund to support long-term goals that reflect the needs and voices of all our communities.

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.

Disclaimer

The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.