Weekly Wrap Up: 16 March 2026
Each week I’m providing a quick summary of the meetings and events I’ve attended as a member of the Howick Local Board (HLB). This is my report for last week, starting Monday 16 March.
Business Improvement District (BID)’s is a local economic development initiative run by business associations and supported by Auckland Council. Targeted rates are collected to use on activities that promote economic growth in their area. On Monday Auckland Council staff held a training session for those members appointed to look after local BIDs. It was a good opportunity to better understand the programme, our responsibilities and how to manage potentially complicated situations.
On Wednesday I had an opportunity to put my training into action, when I attended the Business East Tāmaki Committee Meeting. I provided them a quick update on our recent actions, including our support for a clearway along Accent Drive. Major focus for the team was preparing for the business awards later in the week.
During the day I attended the funeral of Ian Milnes, an incredible local who served his community for many years, most recently as our Senior Local Board Advisor. Elected Members might be the public face of local boards, but we’re fortunate to be supported by some incredible people who turn ideas into action. When I stepped into the role of chairperson last term, it was challenging but Ian was there to provide advice, support, and friendly banter. We could not have done what we’ve done without him – he will be deeply missed, and my thoughts are with his whānau and friends.
Later on Wednesday some of the HLB met up with Councillor Bo Burns to discuss the upcoming Long Term Plan (LTP). This 10-year plan is refreshed every 3 years and sets the direction for funding, projects, and more so it’s vital we get it right.
On Thursday we had our regular HLB Workshop (https://aucklandcouncil.resolve.red/portal/meeting/12269)
📑Draft Local Board Work Programme (Opex) first conversation about what projects and activities we might want to include this coming financial year (July-June). We weren’t balancing the budget yet but to provide context we have $25.3M pre-allocated leaving $4.5M to distribute and $4M in the draft programme (including returning previous funding cuts to enable Flat Bush temporary library).
⚽Play, Sport and Recreation introduction covering Play, Activations (like Out and About), and Sports and Recreation (physical buildings, supporting sports clubs)
📍Local Board Plan 2026 final discussion on early draft themes and concepts covering economic development and transport.
🚧Auckland Transport regarding request from 4 members to partly revoke approval for The Parade Stage 2 – will come to the business meeting this month for a decision
Then we got dressed up for the RSM East Auckland Business Awards! This fantastic event celebrating local businesses and their important contribution to the local economy was organised by Business East Tāmaki, with sponsorship from RSM, Times Media, and HLB. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners! And a huge thank you to the organisers and sponsors for their amazing support.
We’re currently consulting on our (local board and council) annual budget and it’s vital that everyone has an opportunity to have their say. Connecting with our diverse communities, especially the 55% of locals born overseas can be challenging with language and knowledge gaps so Auckland Council engages local community organisations to run workshops. On Friday fellow HLB member Jack Collins and I attended a workshop run by Korean Positive Aging Charitable Trust (KPACT) who do amazing work. You can find out more (including translations in 11 languages other than English) here: https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/annual-plan-2026-2027
This coming week:
📅 Mon 23 March: Howick Youth Council - Principals’ Breakfast
📅 Thu 26 March: HLB Business Meeting (https://aucklandcouncil.resolve.red/portal/meeting/12497)