On December 1, I published my Mayoral Proposal for Auckland Council’s 10-year Budget 2021-2031. In normal circumstances, this budget would have built on the investments started in the 2018 Budget, which were making inroads into Auckland’s...... Read More

As we wrap up the year, it only feels natural to conclude with a reflection on 2020. The other day I attended a community meeting where we were asked about our aspirations for 2021. While the common response was “no more lockdowns”, I was...... Read More

Google Michigan roads and you will see the worst roads in the USA. Michigan’s roads are funded primarily from fuel taxes, but as vehicles become more efficient less tax is being collected. It is politically difficult to raise the tax because their...... Read More

If this year hasn’t already felt like it was flying by, can you believe Christmas is just around the corner? It feels like summer has arrived, but it’s also been good to get some rain, as Council water restrictions are still in place. The...... Read More

Reflecting at the end of the year is something I’m sure we all do. Looking back at 2020, we will all have mixed feelings about the year that’s been and many have been doing it very tough. I would like to use this opportunity to thank our...... Read More

Local knowledge and experience count. When projects, budgets and plans are up for consideration we need to make sure the Hibiscus Coast can make the most of opportunities. In this term of Council I’m keen to see the Hammerhead issue at Gulf Harbour...... Read More

The school and university holidays are around the corner. For school students this means six weeks of freedom and university students are more spoiled, with approximately three months of time with their head out of the books. What can young people do...... Read More

Ten years ago this month, the Auckland Supercity was formed and I was fortunate enough to be elected to represent you on the Rodney Local Board. At the time, the budgets of the former councils were amalgamated and the first budgets for Auckland were formed. As...... Read More

As summer fast approaches you might be forgiven for thinking things are back to normal. This year has been anything but, of course, and while some in our community have got through relatively unscathed, others have had their lives turned upside down What’s...... Read More

The more things change, the more they stay the same. It’s one of my favourite expressions and the “change” aspect certainly applies right now. Obviously, I’m writing in the aftermath of a General Election that took place in the...... Read More