Howick Local Board inauguration 2025

“I declare that I will faithfully and impartially, and according to the best of my skill and judgement, execute and perform, in the best interests of the Howick area…”

Last Thursday evening, the Howick Local Board held our inaugural meeting. It's a significant event, our first meeting of the new term where we're sworn in and elect our Chairperson and Deputy. It was wonderful that so many members of our diverse communities were present to witness it. For me, it was particularly special to have my parents, partner, and one of my dear friends as my invited guests. We finished with delightful performances from a local community organisation, the New Zealand Multicultural Arts and Sport Centre.

For the next three years Bruce Kendall is the Chairperson, with three Deputies - starting with Kai Zeng (until October 2026), then Krish Naidu (until October 2027) and finally Jack Collins (until October 2028).

I am extremely proud of what we achieved last term by working together to deliver for the community. I believe I proved myself as Chairperson and was looking forward to continuing to lead the Board. I've been open and transparent about my intentions and what I would bring to the role. Unfortunately some members chose to take a different approach and ultimately they won by a slim majority (6 vs 5). An effort to elect an experienced Deputy for the beginning of the term to help smooth the transition also failed.

Regardless of the outcome, I'm very grateful for the support I received, both around the table and from the wider community. Unburdened by the duties of the Chair, I'm looking forward to continuing to represent the Botany community over the next three years.

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is facing some significant challenges - intensification and population growth; transport and RMA reform; limited funding and an uncertain economy. None of this will be easy to tackle, but I remain committed to delivering for our communities in my capacity as a Member of the Howick Local Board.