We can all do more to support our local not-for-profit
We should do more to support our not-for-profits - they represent a massive part of our communities and they need our support.
July Newsletter
My latest newsletter is out - the campaign has kicked off and I’ve been busy attending community meetings, exhibitions and clean ups. People often ask why I'd spend so much time, money and effort running for council - I love Auckland but poor leadership is holding back our city.
Pay increase for drivers a good start
Essential workers throughout this pandemic (and before), our bus drivers deserve better pay and conditions. Great to see this being recognised with Auckland Council announcing today that drivers will receive an increase of 8%, effective this Thursday.
Howick Councillors change of heart on park sales too late to save Fortyfoot
While it’s good to see our councillors accept they had previously made the wrong decision and try to save Fortyfoot Park it has been too late. I welcome their recent efforts but today's outcome is the unfortunate but inevitable result of poor decisions they made two years ago.
East Auckland arts lighting up Howick
As part of Elemental AKL, East Auckland Tourism organised a light show at Fencible Walk in Howick Village over three nights.
Community can help with crime prevention
It's always distressing to see crimes happening, especially in our own area. I feel particularly for the business and home owners - the emotional and psychological impacts are often longer lasting than just the loss and damage to property.
Council's failure to manage commercial assets costs Aucklanders again and again
Repeated failures by Auckland Council and our elected representatives to manage commercial assets on our behalf costs us again and again.
Another busy year for the Cockle Bay Residents and Ratepayers Association
The Cockle Bay Residents and Ratepayers Association are one of the most active and constructive groups in our area. At their AGM today, Chairperson Laurie Slee talked through their work over the past year and I was impressed with both the range and depth of issues they’ve advocated on.
Eastern Busway Burswood diversion worst outcome for everyone
Auckland Transport's decision to destroy more homes to build the Eastern Busway is a terrible outcome for Auckland.
Trolley team cleans up Botany Creek
I've been involved in many community clean ups, but never been on the Trolley Team before!
It's time for change
I am proud to announce that I intend to stand for Auckland Council for my local ward of Howick.
June Newsletter
My latest newsletter is out - I didn't do one for May as I was unfortunately sick with COVID-19 so this covers both May and June. Since recovering, I've been catching up with people, planting trees & enjoying performances.
East Auckland youth have incredible talent!
Last night we attended the East Auckland Performing Arts Showcase, organised by the Howick Youth Council. It was a great evening, showcasing the incredible talent of our East Auckland rangatahi (young people).
Eastern Busway Burswood diversion continues to divide
I popped into Eastern Busway community drop in session in Burswood this morning. Nice to see full size maps and talk with knowledgeable staff from Eastern Busway Alliance.
Community planting day at Mangemangeroa Reserve
Early morning start today, helping out with community planting at Mangemangeroa.
Delivering transparency safely - my submission on Local Electoral (Advertising) Amendment Bill
The Local Electoral (Advertising) Amendment Bill “would amend the Local Electoral Act 2001 to address concerns around candidate safety by loosening the requirement that candidates attach either their residential or business address to electoral advertising. It would allow email addresses, PO box or phone numbers, or links to an internet page to be used instead.“
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.
How many people need to die for Auckland Transport to act?
Too many people are being killed or seriously injured on our roads. And Auckland Transport has been big on promises for road safety, but their record shows otherwise.
Submission on Auckland Council's preliminary response to housing intensification
Central Government (together with the Opposition) have created legislation that requires all larger cities in New Zealand to allow more intensification of housing. Auckland Council have prepared a preliminary response and asked for public feedback. The following is my submission.
Lest we forget...
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Photo: Times Online