My experience with COVID-19
I’ve been off sick with COVID, although I’m largely recovered now. I know I’ve missed a few things and I had to defer some meetings. As I catch up, I thought I might share my experience.
Auckland Transport is increasing fares, yet again.
In what feels like deja vu, Auckland Transport is yet again increasing the fares for public transport. From 7 February about half of all passengers will pay an average 35 cents more for each trip. In 2016 they reworked the fare structure and every year since then fares have gone up. Last year they blamed petrol prices and this year it's COVID19. The reality is that Auckland already has one of the most expensive public transport fares in the world and making it more expensive is only making our transport issues worse.
Inaction, waste mar the first decade of Super City - NZ Herald
After a decade of vanity projects, wasteful spending and empty gestures, Auckland Council’s abysmal financial management is finally catching up with it. While some may delight in its downfall, the residents and ratepayers are left to face the brunt of its inept management.
Howick Local Board feedback on Emergency Budget
On Thursday evening last week I attended a special Howick Local Board meeting. Timed to allow the members to consider feedback from locals on the proposed Emergency Budget before it goes to council.
Submission on Auckland Council Emergency Budget
This is my submission on the Auckland Council Emergency Budget.
The proposed budget is really disappointing. It lacks vision, is extremely short sighted and consultation has been poor.
What Auckland Council's proposed Emergency Budget means for East Auckland
I’m deeply concerned about the cuts to safety programmes, environmental management and public transport which will all cost more than just money. The missing information on the Eastern Busway, Community Safety Fund and Ormiston Town Centre make it difficult to fully understand the impact.
Auckland Council's proposed emergency budget is drastic
With everything that has been happening, we've become accustomed to drastic action in the face of a crisis. But even still, the proposed Auckland Council emergency budget is still a shock.
Taiwan's membership in the WHO shouldn't be a political decision
I don’t often agree with Winston Peter’s but on Taiwan joining the World Health Organisation (WHO) I agree. In the same way that China doesn't get to decide what Taiwan does, they don't get to decide what New Zealand does either.
Howick Local Board goes online to approve transport investment
The Howick Local Board for April was held online but not open to the public. I normally attend these and it was a shame to not be able to attend this, but I understand that changes are necessary in these challenging times.
COVID19 calls for new approach to Council budget and rates
COVID19 has required an unprecedented response at all levels of government and local council is not immune. As the health and economic impacts of the pandemic are beginning be understood, it's clear that we need to rethink our short term plans.
Auckland Airport shortchanges Auckland ratepayers
Thanks to the poor actions of Auckland Airport, Auckland Council "lost an immediate $18 million in the value of its shareholding last week, and had missed a $70m gain".
Staying safe, saying home
As we pass the two week mark of the COVID19 lockdown, I thought I’d give a quick update on what I’ve been up to. The short version - working.
Don't be like David, stay home.
I've said it before, David Clark is one of the weakest ministers in this cabinet (which is saying a lot considering who some of his colleagues are).