As a long-time local resident, I believe it is critical that funding is used wisely to ensure our suburbs thrive. My goal as an independent candidate is to engage meaningfully and strengthen our Community's Voice.
I live and work in this community and have raised my family here. From my days in planning, I have visited most, if not all, of our suburbs and gained valuable insight into their unique character and needs.
I've been an active member of the St Heliers and Glendowie Residents Association, challenged Council to cut spending, supported high-density development while protecting neighbourhood character, and contributed to environmental restoration projects.
With over 20 years of experience in planning, both in New Zealand and internationally, I understand how cities grow and communities thrive. I've worked with councils, developers, and communities to shape livable, sustainable places.
Through my work as a Planner and small business owner, I have real-world insight into how policies affect everyday people and local businesses. I don't just talk — I listen to the community, take action and deliver results.
I've worked across agencies and with Council departments to deliver real outcomes — whether it's fixing local infrastructure, improving stream health, or addressing environmental risks like asbestos contamination along the Tāmaki Estuary.
Building a stronger, more transparent, and sustainable future for all Ōrākei residents
Residents have the right to understand how decisions are made, who makes them, and why. Transparency builds trust, and accountability ensures elected members act in the community's best interests.
Every dollar of ratepayer money should deliver real value to the community. Prudent financial management means focusing on practical solutions that provide long-term benefits.
Local boards are meant to represent their communities, which means actively listening to residents, understanding their needs, and involving them in shaping solutions.
Many key decisions that shape life in Ōrākei are made at a citywide level, where our community's unique needs can easily be overlooked. I will ensure our voice is heard.
Balancing growth with the preservation of our environment, heritage, and quality of life. Making decisions today that will continue to deliver benefits for decades to come.
Auckland should ensure safe, reliable water and protect the environment. Stormwater must be upgraded to prevent flooding and pollution, and wastewater must be managed to avoid overflows. In Orakei, I support sustainable infrastructure improvements, proactive maintenance, and community engagement to safeguard water quality and resilience for current and future residents. We need to 'fix' the pollution (black flags) of our local beaches every summer.
Orākei suburbs were upzoned in 2016. With density limits removed, housing can expand generally without restriction. Most suburbs in the Orakei Local Board area (except Stonefields) have aging infrastructure needing proper upgrades, not band-aid fixes. I support heritage and cultural protection to preserve our “sense of place” and strategic, sustainable planning to manage cumulative development impacts.
The Ōrākei Ward has many outdated Reserve Management Plans, for example, Dingle Dell’s RMP 1984 (required under the Reserves Act 1977). Plans provide a framework for care, protection, and use over time, including climate change impacts. They balance conservation, recreation, cultural values, & community needs to keep reserves valuable and accessible. I will investigate issues, identify plan updates, & work with the Council and the community to refresh these plans where possible.
My transport priorities in Orakei focus on safety, accessibility, and community connection. I will advocate for reliable public transport, promote walking and cycling links between suburbs, schools, and amenities and listen to the community and businesses to guide decisions that improve local transport options. Transport options should be directed by the Community, not a desktop exercise.
If elected to the Orakei Local Board, I will strive to strengthen our community’s "sense of place" to foster pride and connection. I will listen to residents to build trust and address local needs. I will advocate for accessible, well-maintained parks, facilities, and transport that reflect our unique character. I will support initiatives promoting mental health, safety, and inclusion through events and programs for youth, seniors, and vulnerable groups to improve community well-being.
I will support economic growth, the local businesses, and promote our cultural heritage. Through the St Heliers and Glendowie Residents Association, I’ve seen businesses struggle from COVID, infrastructure changes, and red cones. It’s important to listen to the community to understand their struggles and concerns, and ensure initiatives reflect their priorities while strengthening community connections.
Using planning expertise and community input to make informed decisions that deliver real benefits for residents and ratepayers.
Meaningful engagement with residents across all suburbs, ensuring diverse voices are heard and local knowledge guides decision-making.
Free from party politics, focused solely on what's best for our local community and ensuring ratepayer value in every decision.
Balancing growth with environmental protection, ensuring our community remains livable and resilient for future generations.