Upskilling my governance with Company Directors Course
I’ve spent the last week on a professional training course for Company Directors. Run by the NZ Institute of Directors, the course covered best practice corporate governance, including strategy, finance, risk and culture.
Auckland's outdated election system hurts our democracy
Leaving oversight of elections to those the current, flawed system put into power is significant conflict of interest. Out sourcing the operations to commercial businesses is hardly better.
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.