Eastern Busway cannot come soon enough

As we work hard to recover economically from the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown, the Eastern Busway presents an exciting opportunity. If the Government and AT give this "shovel-ready" fully-funded infrastructure project the very highest priority it will create desperately needed jobs and local investment. If more money is needed to deliver the project faster or to current specifications, that should be considered.

- Christopher Luxon (National candidate for Botany) & Simeon Brown (MP for Pakuranga)

In a piece in the NZ Herald, Christopher Luxon and Simeon Brown have both called for the Eastern Busway to be built faster. It's great to see the support for this critical transport infrastructure project for East Auckland.

I've long argued that this has taken too long and needs to be accelerated (part of my campaigns in 2017, 2018 and 2019). We need it yesterday to cope with the massive growth we continue to see in the area. While we also need road improvements, congestion free transport like busways allow for larger volumes of people and also support walking and cycling. They also free up the road for those who can't use public transport, making it a win for all.

Another reason to get this project done is we need to move onto other transport projects, with better connections through to Howick, Bucklands Beach, Cockle Bay and beyond. The sooner we can get the Eastern Busway done the better!

Great to see support coming from local MP and candidates.

Taiwan's membership in the WHO shouldn't be a political decision

“We have got to stand up for ourselves,” Winston Peters, New Zealand’s foreign minister, said at a news conference when asked about China’s response to New Zealand’s position on Taiwan. “And true friendship is based on equality. It’s based on the ability in this friendship to nevertheless disagree.”

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.

I know the relationship between China and Taiwan is complicated and full of historical challenges. I also know that we have a unique relationship with Taiwan (Republic of China) with our free trade deal. They're our 8th largest export market and our 16th largest import market. We share a number of similarities and we also have many things to teach each other.

Recovering from a global pandemic and the economic impact isn't something we can do alone. If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it should be that collective action is one of the most powerful actions to a crisis. A global collective action is needed to respond to this crisis and the climate change crisis. Allowing nations to be part of that conversation is the starting point and the World Health Organisation is where those conversations happen. Blocking nations for petty political reasons will not save lives nor will it help economies or save the environment.

We like to talk about being an independent nation that punches above it's weight, it's time we stood up and acted like one.

Opportunity for an informed choice on cannabis reform

This year, NZ voters will be asked for their vote on two referendums, including one on the legalisation of cannabis.

The government has provided a summary of proposed regulations so we can make an informed decision - https://www.referendums.govt.nz/cannabis/index.html.

From first read, it's good.

New Zealand is fortunate to be in a position to learn from others experiences. From what I'm reading, it seems we've adapted the good and avoided the bad to create a regulatory framework that fits our needs.

Some highlights:

1. It's focused on harm reduction and takes a health approach, which is fantastic.

2. It's taking a sensible approach to age limits and personal use. Age restriction addresses concerns about impacts on younger people and home grow reduces black market and corporates from dominating.

3. It's balanced to prevent too much corporate control. Regulations allow for licensed retailers and producers, but there are limits to prevent issues seen overseas with large profit driven companies flooding the market, causing massive social harm like we've seen with tobacco and alcohol. Potency limits, product approvals will help.

4. It’s going to collect revenue and fund better outcomes. Taxes and levies will apply, to help control the market and pay for education and treatments - our addiction services are dreadfully underfunded. Applying this based on the potency is sensible and discourages overly potent products.

5. It has good oversight. Inclusions like the Regulatory Authority and Advisory Committee are good, especially with the inclusion of iwi, health, justice and social sectors. For too long alcohol and tobacco were allowed to ravage communities and caused massive social harm, seems we've learned.

After my first read through, my major issue is not the proposed regulation - but how it may (or may not) happen. Firstly, the referendum has to pass (which isn't a given). Then the next government can choose to implement the regulations, or not. This should have been a binding referendum, with the bill passed waiting to be enacted if the public agreed. This is how the End of Life bill has been managed and it's a better option. I appreciate that this is the political reality of the coalition government, but it's still a shame.

I'm looking forward to seeing the thoughts of others on the proposed regulations before making my final decision, but based on what I've seen here, I'll be voting in favour of legislation (through regulation).

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.

As expected when we move to a new way of working, there were a few teething problems but nothing significant. Full credit to the Chair, Board and Council team for making this work.

The big item on the agenda was to allocate the Local Board Transport Capital Fund (LBTCF) which is a discretionary fund that each local board gets to to spend on transport projects they see as a priority. This is in addition to the other Auckland Transport spending. There was minor changes to the proposed wording, but the result is effectively the same.

This means the Board has:

• asked for options of up to $3m for better pedestrian safety around Bucklands Beach;

• asked for options for speed indicator variable message signs (VMS) on Point View Dr;

• asked for options for an information plinth at Half Moon Bay, and other locations;

• asked for options for better walking route between the Half Moon Bay Ferry Terminal and coastal walkway in front of the Bucklands Beach Yacht Club;

• allocated up to $4m for the Howick Walking and Cycling Plan;

• reserved $3m for projects from the Steering Group on the Howick Village Centre Plan.

Historically the fund has been under spent, which has been disappointing consider the huge transport challenges we have in East Auckland. As they say, the devil is in the detail and there is a bit to work out, especially for the Bucklands Beach work, but it's great to see these progress.

The Auckland Council website is hosting a video recording of the session (23 minutes) if you're interested. And the minutes are also available (although these only record the outcomes, not the discussion).

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.

Despite significant support from the government, many households will find themselves struggling and it's entirely appropriate that council reconsiders it's budget. This week Councillors had a very long and detailed discussion about priorities for Council.

“Auckland Council will consult with the public on a rate increase of 2.5 or 3.5 per cent. For the average ratepayer, a 2.5 per cent increase would be equivalent to an extra $1.35 per week, while a 3.5 per cent increase would be $1.83 per week."

The Accommodation Provider Targeted Rate (aka Hotel Tax) is being suspended while there is no tourism and all ratepayers experiencing financial hardship will have chance to to defer payment of their fourth quarter rates installments.

Council will also do work to understand what a zero percent increase would mean for services. All of this will go out for public consultation. See the financial report here.

On top this, the chief executives of Auckland Council and its five council-controlled organisations will take a pay cut of 20 per cent for the next six months. Board chairs, directors and senior executives have volunteered pay cuts. See the announcement here.

The Mayor and many Councillors have also volunteered to donate a portion of their salary to charity (there isn't a method to reduce their pay).

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".

Auckland Council holds the largest share of the Auckland International Airport but these have been diluted as a result of this sudden decision. This is on the top of a drop in value in shares as the airport struggles with the lack of flights.

I can appreciate that businesses need to make quick steps in this unprecedented time, but to not include your largest and longest investor in these is extremely poor.

As a result of Councillor Chris Darby's quick actions, Auckland Council will be looking into how they can improve oversight into a significant investment, hopefully preventing a repeat. Strangely, five councillors voted against this - seemingly happy with the lack of oversight and resulting loss for ratepayers.

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.

I’m very fortunate to be employed at a company that has been deemed an essential service (under legislation and through registration with MPI). We provide food safety and assurance services to the primary industries and our team is working hard to support these critical industries. I take pride in working for an organisation that’s ensuring that the food we eat is safe, well produced and in good supply.

I’m on our Business Continuity team at work, made up of the CEO and full Executive team along with key representatives from across the business. We’ve been meeting for months and our plans were well advanced before they had to be enacted. This work is a natural fit with my work as the board secretary (writing papers, minutes and chasing actions) and in business improvement. Plenty of new challenges and opportunities as the situation evolves. This has been keeping me very busy, everyday and some weekends. As we start to settle into the new normal, the workload is settling down too into a new regular pattern.

Like many kiwis, I’ve been working from home for the past few weeks. It might be weird for an Aucklander to say, but I miss my daily commute. The time on public transport and the walk was a nice separation from work, and good for my physical and mental health. Too easy to take work home, when work is literally at home. But we adjust and adapt. I’m fortunate to have a small home office (previously used for my campaigns) where I can base myself and create a little separation but it’s still been a big adjustment. We’ve gotten used to remote working, to sharing and collaboration through technology. 

We had a family video conference on Sunday, which was equal parts chaos and wonderful. I haven’t seen my whānau for a few weeks and it was great to spend some time together (even if it was through a screen). My five siblings, their families and our parents made for a rowdy time - just like real meetups! Outside of this we’re keeping in close contact, with our WhatsApp group busy with updates and a healthy dose of memes.

I’ve ventured out to the supermarket when necessary and want to make special thank you to the front line workers who are operating under some very difficult circumstances. As someone who works alongside essential workers, I have some idea of the additional stresses that this lockdown is placing on them and their families. Friends of mine have a daughter working at a supermarket and she wrote a good piece for the RNZ - check it out if you want a honest insight.

Otherwise I’ve been staying at home, following the rules and trying to avoid the panic. With work keeping me busy, I haven’t had too much time to stress the little issues or get distracted with the absurd political tribalism that is definitely alive and well. It will definitely be an interesting election come September (one I’m glad to be sitting out).

I hope everyone is keeping well, listening to the official advice and staying safe.

From my bubble to yours, take care!

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).

Even before the pandemic, I could not understand how he ended up with such a vital portfolio of Health Minister. Especially given how vocal Labour was about health during the last election.

He's offered to resign but only been demoted. He stays on as Health Minister until this crisis is over. Some have argued that these breaches are minor, but he's the Health Minister in a public health emergency. Scotland’s chief medical officer resigned for travelling to her second home. Clark's behaviour is much worse.

He should be a role model, not a rule breaker.

Don't be like David. Stay home, stay safe.

Local Irra Lee gets hands-on experience communicating the work of Parliament

Local Irra Lee has spent a few months working in Parliament, gaining some really good insights into how it really works. In her words:

“Opportunities like this become really valuable in providing students fresh out of university with real-world experience, seeing how things are run. It’s important for all journalists to understand the two sides of the coin [journalism and public relations] and see how they work, as they all contribute to what comes out to the public,”

“I also learnt a lot here from the perspective of a member of the public, about Parliament and how it’s run. So it was a valuable experience from both a professional and personal point of view.”

Check out the full story on the NZ Parliament website.

I know Irra through her work with the Howick Youth Council and she's fantastic. Always so positive and professional, normally she's the one taking the photos and writing the story, nice to see this about her experiences in Parliament.

Well done Irra, keep up the great work!

Government fails to deliver on infrastructure

For generations NZ has under invested in infrastructure and, while today's announcement is welcome, it's not enough to address the gaps, let alone take us forward.

Newsroom - Why $12b isn’t enough to fill this infrastructure chasm

$12B sounds like a lot, especially with $6.8B going to transport in Auckland. But to put that in perspective, Auckland is currently investing $27B into transport and it's still not enough.

Auckland could swallow $12B and still need more. And our regions still need investment - the Provincial Growth Fund hasn't delivered.

It's no secret that I've been highly critical of this government's big promises and lack of delivery. Today's announcement isn't doing much to change that, especially as many projects are simply restarted roading projects from previous government that were stopped by the current coalition. If they were important, why stop them? If they aren't important, why do them now?

This isn't transformational.

I'm not asking the government to tax more although I am keen to see the multinationals pay their fair share by closing loopholes. But government already has access to massive amounts of funds which they need to divest to the regional and city councils to build, repair and strengthen their infrastructure as they need to respond to local and regional challenges.

Last election, politicians (myself included) promised significant investment in infrastructure. Everyone agrees we need it to support our growing population, tackle climate change and address ageing assets.

This year, as a voter I'm looking for a party that's serious about investing in Aotearoa through true localism.

Absurd - public transport prices increase despite climate emergency

““Putting up prices during a climate emergency is absurd,” Damian Light, who stood unsuccessfully in the Howick Ward in the last local body election, tweeted.

”We’ve declared a climate emergency and transport is our largest contributor to emissions – we must address this.””

— https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/118807935/aucklands-public-transport-fare-hike-absurd

Auckland Council: we've declared a Climate Emergency. Transport is our largest contributor to emissions, we must address this.

Auckland Transport: we're making it more expensive to use public transport. Again.

It's great about the free weekends for 5-15 year olds, making it easier for families to get around our city is a positive step. We need to do more of this and also introduce changes like fare caps.

But putting up prices during a climate emergency is absurd. I appreciate that some of the restrictions come from parliament, with farebox recovery mandated but when will our leaders get serious about standing up for our city, our environment and our future?

We're paying at the pump for what?

I was dismayed (but not surprised) to see that Auckland Transport has yet again under delivered, despite record taxes on residents. The Regional Fuel Tax was forced upon us with the promise of significant investment but after collecting over a billion dollars, they've held onto $268million. I agree with Councillor Daniel Newman that this is dishonest.

Auckland Council underspends transport budget by $268m in first year of regional petrol tax - NZ Herald 13 Jan, 2020

We're paying more than ever, yet we continue to battle with unsafe footpaths, congested roads and overpriced public transport.

The silver lining is that they didn't waste it all on consultants and vanity projects, but there's real issues that need to be addressed with urgency. One of many local examples is the long promised pedestrian bridge on Flatbush School Road, where students from Te Uho o te Nikau Primary School are left to dodge trucks while Auckland Transport sits on millions of dollars of public money.

In the Howick Local Board area, nearly half of the $5.4m available for local transport projects in the last electoral term was unspent. Will our newly elected Local Board be able to get Auckland Transport to deliver for us? I hope so, for the sake of us all.

Why is sunscreen so expensive in NZ?

We all know to slip slop and slap, but sunscreen is expensive especially when compared to Australia.

"The best buy from Aussie Woolworths is a homebrand Woolworths Sunscreen – 1 litre for A$9. For NZ$10 here, we get a 100ml Cancer Society Sunblock Lotion. That means we get one-tenth of the sunscreen for the same price that Australians pay." - The Spinoff

With 80,000 new cases of skin cancer a year, the government needs to do more. Prevention makes social and financial sense. We spend $57m on skin cancer treatment but only $600,000 on prevention. If we increased prevention, we save money and lives.

Sign the petition here.

Costly review our only hope for better democracy?

Auckland Council agency review: Consultants on up to $350 an hour - Stuff

Auckland Council governance is a shambles, if we have to pay to properly understand it then let's get it done. But I worry that this will just generate an expensive, glossy report that achieves nothing.

Any changes will likely need government support as the structure of Auckland Council (including the CCOs) is determined by an Act of parliament. this will also need councillor backing and already there are divisions. Even more important is that the public are heard and listened to, not just the noisy few.

I agree with Cr Chris Darby that this is a missed opportunity for a wider review of the governance model for our largest city.

Campaign donation and expenses return filed

Last Friday was the deadline for all candidates to complete their donations and expenses return. Every election (local and central) requires candidates to declare how they raised their funds and where it was spent.

View fullsize

View fullsize

These will be published on the Auckland Council website but the website isn't the most user friendly, so to help support better transparency here's my return in full.

Unlike certain mayoral candidates, I didn't receive any large donations from trusts. However I did receive donations from some very generous locals but nothing over the $1500 required to declare. The majority of my campaign was funded by my own personal savings. I had money saved up from a house sale intended to be a house deposit but after three elections in three years its mostly spent.

My expenses are spread between traditional channels and social media with nearly a quarter on newspaper advertising and nearly 20% on printed media (although this includes delivery). I budgeted to spend more on social media but because of the way they charge (based on interactions), I didn't spend as much as I thought. The tiny spend on Twitter was an experiment that didn't last (and won't be repeated, even before political adverts were banned).

What this return doesn't show is the countless hours of work put in by me and others who generously volunteered their time. Thank you again for giving up your time, your fences and your skills.

In the spirit of transparency, happy to answer any questions anyone has about my donations or expenses.

Howick Santa Parade a huge success!

Another fantastic Howick Santa Parade! Third biggest in Australasia and this year was better than ever!

Loads of entertainment, including a magic show!

Music and more as the floats paraded through Howick

Couldn't help but enjoy the day!

Wouldn't be Santa Parade without the man in red!

Proud to have helped lead our amazing volunteers!

Huge effort, good fun to be a small part of it leading our amazing team of volunteers. Thank you to everyone, especially Bo and Pip Burns for an awesome community day! 🎄

And the rain held out!

Congratulations to the Howick Local Board members

Congratulations to the new and re-elected members of the Howick Local Board. I'm thrilled to see that the Local Board has retained much of its experience while also gaining some new blood.

Howick Subdivision

• Adele White (re-elected)

• John Spiller (re-elected)

• Bo Burns (new member)

Botany Subdivision

• Mike Turinsky (re-elected)

• Bob Wichman (re-elected)

• Peter Young (re-elected

Pakuranga subdivision

• David Collings (re-elected)

• Katrina Bungard (re-elected)

• Bruce Kendall (new member)

Jim Donald and Garry Boles were not re-elected and I want to thank them both for their service to our community, not just on the Board but in other roles. I'm sure we'll still see them both around the community.

I know that new members Bo Burns and Bruce Kendall will bring fresh ideas to the Board along with the determination to see them delivered.

I'm looking forward to seeing the new Board get underway and working with them on the issues facing our community. Lots of promises were made during the election, it's time to deliver.

Thank you East Auckland

Firstly I want to thank everyone who voted for me, regardless of the outcome I appreciate your support and the trust you have placed in me. Thank you everyone who helped during the campaign, your support made it all possible.

I'm obviously disappointed in the results, I'd hoped to have the privilege of representing our community at Council but it was not to be.

Congratulations to both Sharon Stewart and Paul Young on being re-elected to council. As our area continues to suffer growing pains, we need councillors who will ensure that our community and its people are heard - it's up to you to ensure that we get what we need.

Commiserations to fellow candidates David Collings and Tofik Mamedov. I know how much time, money and effort goes into a campaign but you should be proud for standing up for your community. Kia kaha.

This isn't the end for me - I'll continue to be heavily involved in my community, lending a helping hand where I can. I return to an awesome job, working with great people. I'll continue to be a strong advocate for our area and do what I can to hold our representatives and council to account. And there's another election in three years...

Vote to ensure your voice is heard

With less than a week left, just under 17,000 locals of Howick Ward have voted. If you haven't, please make sure you do!

If you don't have your voting papers, you can cast a special vote.

☑️ Howick Library

☑️ Botany Night Market

☑️ Manukau Service Centre

https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/elections/information-for-voters/Pages/where-cast-special-vote.aspx

We painted the town red!

We pained the town red! Well, the bins anyway.

Saturday afternoon over 80 volunteers came together to help give the Howick Village a makeover, cleaning up rubbish, painting bins and fences and tidying up the gardens.

Awesome work everyone!