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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.
Craig LORD
Candidate for Whau Ward
WestWards
Candidate statement
As an experienced maintenance and diagnostics engineer, I’m trained to identify faults, trace causes, and deliver solutions. I’m now bringing that same hands-on, no-nonsense mindset to local government. I care about what matters most: Core Services. That means infrastructure, roads, public facilities – the essentials we all rely on and pay for. I believe in prioritising necessities over vanity projects, and backing local contractors to meet local needs – so every ratepayer dollar works harder. In my world, 'near enough' isn’t good enough – and it shouldn’t be in Council either. I’ll speak up, challenge waste, fight against bureaucracy, and push for transparency and accountability. I will be your voice at the table. No spin. No games. If you want a Councillor who will roll up their sleeves, work hard, and restore common sense to Council – I’m here to represent you. Vote WestWards for effective representation across West Auckland.
Why I want to be elected
I'm running for council to fight for better core services like roads, water, and waste — done right and delivered efficiently. I’ll push to cut wasteful spending and move away from big corporates, making it easier for local contractors to do local work. With smarter decisions and common sense at the table, I’ll always put our community and ratepayers first.
My key skills and qualities
With a trade background as a maintenance and diagnostic engineer, I was trained to find faults and then deliver practical, cost-effective solutions. I’ve also spent 20 years self-employed as a freelance media broadcaster building strong communication and listening skills. I bring a problem-solving mindset, real-world experience, and the ability to connect with people — all key to representing our community effectively.
My top three key issues
I’m passionate about fixing core services — we all rely on them, yet ratepayers like me get poor value. I want to change that. Council also isn’t listening — Western Springs Speedway proves that. We need real engagement and accountability. Lastly, using big corporates for local work is inefficient. Let’s make it easier for local contractors to serve their own communities and deliver better results.
My position on key topics
Transport
For too long, certain powers have been pushing hard to hinder the use of our roads by our own personal vehicles. They are doing everything they can to frustrate us onto public transport and bicycles. This ideology needs to stop. I will not advocate for speed bumps in nonsensical places, nor will I push for gold plated cycle lanes. Our roads need to be maintained efficiently and cost-effectively.
Water
I see no issue currently with the way our water is being managed, however, I do have issues with fluoride and pollutants going into our ocean and waterways.
Built environment
The focus on urban development should be by going up not out and I see no problem with intensification around major public transport hubs. We are seemingly still building on flood Plains, which needs to stop. Our infrastructure genetically speaking is subpar and not able to withstand the growth of our city. We need more effective solutions as a priority.
Natural environment
My biggest concern with the natural environment is the dumping of rubbish and pollutants and all of our waterways, Whau creek suffers from this as do many others. It will be an endless battle, stopping rogues from dumping, but while we try and deal with that, we also need faster, economic solutions for cleanups. On a sidenote, it’s time to open up the Waitakeres.
Community
Working with a community is not that difficult. There are simple processes that need to be followed. Listening, communicating, and being completely transparent. People want to know that they are being heard and they also want to know the current status of issues. It is the job of an elected public servant to listen, and help how ever possible.
Economic and cultural development
My goals for economic development in the Whau also stretch across greater Auckland. I want local contractors doing local work. That is a focus along with ensuring that Council entities do not hinder local businesses, something we have seen throughout Auckland when cycle lanes or street beautification projects are enabled. Things like that are often ill-conceived, overpriced, and unnecessary.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I believe in delivering equal outcomes for all Aucklanders regardless of their genetic background. The port of Auckland should remain where it is the new CEO is doing a good job.
Candidate's supporting links
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