My Account
Mahurangi Matters asked candidates standing for the Kaipara mayorality, the Warkworth subdivision of the Rodney Local Board and the Otamatea ward of Kaipara District Council what they wanted to achieve if elected …
Kaipara Mayor
Dr Jason Smith (incumbent)
Who are you?
Kia ora, as a fifth generation local Kaipara resident, descended from Albertlanders, I’m passionate about Kaipara and making real progress for this district. I’m the only mayor in New Zealand with a doctorate in economic development, but I’m also at home on the family sheep and beef farm in Ruawai. At 47, I’m getting on with it and have really enjoyed serving the Kaipara community since being elected Mayor of Kaipara in a by-election last year.
What is your number one priority if re-elected Mayor?
My number one priority if re-elected Mayor is to have Kaipara’s roading system on the right track. This is the most important thing for this place. For this reason, I led and support the $19 million Provincial Growth Fund project for improving Kaipara roads. In 2019/20, Kaipara roading investment will be nearly $40 million, double normal levels, and in 2013/14 it was less than $7 million.
What other issues are important to you?
Keeping tight control of Council finances, including prudent management of debt; focusing on how we plan for and manage growth, as Kaipara has the fastest growing population (3.1%) of any North Island district; preparing for climate change, especially sea level rise which has the potential to impact and change our communities and settlements; and keeping Kaipara’s communities thriving and broadening its economic base.
Why does Kaipara need to re-elect you as Mayor?
Because I’ve proven in the last 18 months that I’m running a tight ship and we’re making real progress. After Kaipara District’s chequered past in recent years, it now has improved stability, confidence and growing momentum. Council is serving the people better than it has for years, elected members are working together well to tackle issues important to the community and the people of Kaipara tell me they feel better about Council now than before. Re-electing me will see more progress.
What skills and strengths do you have to offer?
My ability to listen then turn that listening into action. For example, when I was first elected in 2018 everyone told me Kaipara roads were the biggest problem here and on a scale difficult for this small Council to tackle. I listened and over several months worked Kaipara towards the $19m PGF roading funding that’s now helping us make real progress with our roads. The Council I’ve led has been transparent, open, approachable and has employed a great chief executive. Our Council meetings are filled with lively debate, there’s rigorous scrutiny of documents and staff reports and, as a result, Kaipara District Council’s governance is in great health. It’s working well with local Maori, iwi and hapu through its Mana Whenua Forum and we’re working together for the promise of abundant wellbeing that’s in the words “Kaipara te Oranganui” from the district brand. In fast-growing Kaipara people told me they need better tools for growth, so we’re working currently with community towards a new District Plan, including spatial planning like Kaipara’s never had before. These are just some examples of how we’re turning listening into action for Kaipara and making real progress. Nga mihi nui kia koutou katoa.
Moemoea Mohoawhenua
Who are you?
Ti hei mauri ora. E mihi ana ahau I te Matua nui I te rangi. Homai te aroha o te Atua ki a tatou katoa. Tena koutou ki tini mate. Haere haere haere. Ko Moemoea Mohoawhenua taku ingoa. Tena koutou katoa.
Throughout my life I have been: an award-winning performance poet, inmate, guerrilla film maker, drug dealer, street photographer, bank robber, published author (three books), escort agency owner, professional boxer, actor, Maori sovereignty revolutionary, entrepreneur, proud father, common labourer … I have also played many other different roles and acted many different other parts in this bizarre paradox we call life. Now I am running for the Mayoralty of the Kaipara for my Maori people.
What is your number one priority if re-elected Mayor?
My number one priority, as I say on my website mayor.kiwi.nz, is to have the Red, Black & White Maori Sovereignty Tino Rangatiratanga flag flying in true equality alongside the Pakeha/NZ (sic) flag outside the Council Building in Dargaville. This is in accordance with all the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.
What other issues are important to you?
Another key issue is the creation of a tourism venture called the Kumara & Kauri Trail, which I have been developing for a while now. These are two unique things that are specific to the Kaipara, so I would like to see a vision implemented in which busloads of tourists come to the area to see them, plus also partake of our Maori culture (Marae stay-over, etc.).
Why does Kaipara need to elect you as Mayor?
I believe the Kaipara needs not only a new Mayor but a total shakeup of the entire Council, so there is an equal balance of power between Maori and Pakeha in all areas of the Council.
What skills and strengths do you have to offer?
I am a visionary doer. I think outside the square. I see things not as how they are, but how they … could be (to quote President John F. Kennedy). I am highly imaginative and creative. I also truly believe if a proactive tourism initiative is fully developed and implemented, it will be highly successful and create real jobs and wealth for both my Maori and Pakeha people.
Kia-ora koutou katoa.
Candidates for Rodney Local Board –
Warkworth subdivision (three seats)
Steven Garner – Independent
A ‘local’ of most of the last 50-plus years, Steven attended school in Warkworth and spent 12 years on the Mahurangi College Board of Trustees while his children attended. He is involved with and an active member of a host of community organisations. He is active, positive and motivated to make and keep Rodney great. A keen cyclist, fisherman and walker, he is out in the Rodney area most weekends seeing first-hand what a great region we live in and where attention is required.
Why are you standing for the Local Board election?
Rodney is very poorly represented at present. The ‘block’ of Local Board members who have silenced and cut off those members who are not part of their ‘team’ do not appear to understand what ‘representation’ actually means for someone elected to a local body. I would like to ‘represent’ the Warkworth area on the Local Board and ensure the needs of this area are met. Roading, public transport, sports/recreation facilities and our library are all funded, via the general rate, as they are supposed to be and appropriately resourced, promoted and utilised.
What are the three main issues facing the Warkworth subdivision and/or Rodney as a whole?
• Transport – the public transport options to the city to and from Warkworth and surrounds.
• Review the Local Board targeted rate we currently pay, which should not have been passed (I understand there was some dubious/marginal counting of the support).
• Investigate why the Board decided to apply this ‘local’ funding to projects that have the worst Return on Investment possible.
Do you think the Dome Valley is the best place for a new landfill for Auckland?
NO! Although I am unaware of what other options there are there must be a better one than this site which drains to the pristine Kaipara Harbour!
What skills can you offer that other candidates can’t?
I have a long history of involvement with community organisations and management. I have an interest in dispute resolution and a sales and marketing background. The ability to listen, process and act when required or discuss and dissect issues. Experience, Empathy, Excellence … and action! The ability to make considered and rational decisions.
What do you hope to achieve if elected?
Review the targeted rate we currently pay. Is it necessary? Is it an effective and appropriate use of property tax? Re-engage the Local Board with the communities represented and ensure that there is a forum for people to be heard. And to ensure that Auckland Council continues to increase the spend on our rural roads. In addition to the unsealed country roads, some of our main roads, e.g. to Matakana and Snells Beach, should be upgraded.
Tim Holdgate – Independent
Married with four adult children, our family has lived and grown up on our Matakana lifestyle property over the past 25 years. During this time I have been actively involved in the Warkworth and greater Rodney community, as a finance manager in the banking industry and as a registered valuer. My Warkworth community involvement has included 10 years on the Mahurangi College Board of Trustees (four years as chairman), together with various sporting and cultural committees. Other local community roles have included seven years as a trustee on the Harbour Sport Trust Board and as a member of the Mahurangi Collective for Sport and Recreation.
Why are you standing for the Local Board election?
To fairly and transparently represent the interests of the Warkworth community and all community groups, by demanding accountability from Auckland Council to have our fair rates share spent locally.
What are the three main issues facing the Warkworth subdivision and/or Rodney as a whole?
• Managing population growth and employment opportunity in regards to the Unitary Plan, particularly the required capital infrastructure.
• Regional Fuel Tax, currently unfair proportioning of the RFT in Rodney, together with the rapidly deteriorating condition of the roading network.
• Basic provisioning of transport, water, sewage and rubbish
Do you think the Dome Valley is the best place for a new landfill for Auckland?
Certainly not … a potential environmental disaster!
What skills can you offer that other candidates can’t?
I have the financial qualifications and business experience to work collaboratively to provide financially feasible outcomes for all Rodney ratepayers. As a registered valuer and with a project management background, I have a “keen eye” for the required added value aspects involved.
What do you hope to achieve if elected?
Provide a strong voice at local board level, to vigorously challenge and defend situations that arise regarding Rodney’s existence within Auckland City.
Beth Houlbrooke – Rodney First
I’ve lived in the Warkworth area for 25 years and during that time have raised a family, farmed, owned businesses, been on a school Board of Trustees and run a thriving businesswomen’s network. My family are active locally and we have had a bach at Takatu for 60 years. I love boating and fishing, and choral singing when time allows. This will be my third term on the local board, having first been elected in 2013.
Why are you standing for the Local Board election?
I’m standing for re-election because there are so many projects underway that I am keen to see through, and because I get immense satisfaction out of serving this community that I have come to know and love so well.
What are the three main issues facing the Warkworth subdivision and/or Rodney as a whole?
• Impending growth and being prepared for this with necessary infrastructure in place, especially roads, stormwater and wastewater capacity.
• Ensuring we have the necessary community infrastructure in place such as access to public transport, enough space to assemble and enjoy our recreation such as parks and community facilities.
• Environmental impacts, and resilience of our rural road network, as a result of development.
Do you think the Dome Valley is the best place for a new landfill for Auckland?
This decision will be made by independent commissioners and possibly, ultimately, the Environment Court, not local board members. The consent application will be publicly notified so the public will get to have their say.
What skills can you offer that other candidates can’t?
As the only incumbent standing for re-election for Warkworth subdivision, I offer experience, an excellent track record, and important continuity. I have formed valuable relationships with senior council and CCO officials, and politicians at every level. These connections and networks are vital to ensuring Rodney’s voice is heard. I come as a package deal with two other Rodney First candidates, who will share the workload and bring a balance of skills and representation.
What do you hope to achieve if elected?
I would love to see the completion of walking and cycling connections from the Warkworth Showgrounds to the Cement Works, and progress made on the Snells Beach to Warkworth (Puhinui) Trail. I also want to see the multi-sport facility at the Showgrounds underway, some great town centre improvements to Warkworth, and the Park & Ride built. Beyond Warkworth town itself, I’d like to see all our villages and beach settlements clean and thriving, and our roads safe and in good repair.
Paul Manton – Rodney First
I’m an engineer, business owner, farmer, rural contractor and land manager for a local forest. I live just north of Puhoi on Ahuroa Road (gravel), and have for the last 30 years. I have been a proactive and involved member of the Puhoi and Warkworth community. Currently I am co-chair of the Puhoi Community Forum, sit on the Mahurangi Community Sport and Recreation Collective Committee, and am an active participant in the Matakana Coast Trail Trust. I love riding horses and having a beer after a hard day’s work.
Why are you standing for the Local Board election?
It’s important that communities, groups and clubs have strong representation so they can grow and prosper. I was lucky enough growing up that some like-minded people felt the same way. Now it’s my turn to pay back and advocate on your behalf.
What are the three main issues facing the Warkworth subdivision and/or Rodney as a whole?
I wish there were only three!
• Roading – unsealed, maintenance issues, congestion, and poor communication from Auckland Transport.
• The impact of uncontrolled growth on infrastructure, facilities, and the environment.
• The slow dismantlement of the rural way of life, with urbanisation turning Rodney into the Auckland sprawl.
Do you think the Dome Valley is the best place for a new landfill for Auckland?
I have strong views on waste and I think this needs to be addressed at a central government level, it needs a policy where the funding and ability to truly solve the issues exist. Local Board won’t get a vote.
What skills can you offer that other candidates can’t?
I can only speak to my strengths and the candidates I know. I am prepared to work in a team, I will listen, I will make informed decisions, I will stand by my mistakes and be held accountable, I will work hard on your behalf using the knowledge and experiences I have gained. I will be heard when it’s needed, I will communicate.
What do you hope to achieve if elected?
There needs to be better communication with Auckland Transport. We need to utilise the spending of the roading budgets to maximise cost benefits across all roading solutions. We need to get AT to address dangerous parts of our rural road network. I would like to secure the future of Rodney for our young and old alike and be proud of those achievements. Vote Paul Manton Rodney First and my running mates, Beth Houlbrooke and Ayla Walker.
Ayla Walker – Rodney First
I’m a Mum, wifey, celebrant, business coach, millennial and planet lover, who lives in Ahuroa with my husband and two children, aged five and two. I’m very down to earth, approachable, open-minded and good for a laugh. I recently completed my business diploma and I am mentored through the One Warkworth Business Association. I am part of the Santa Parade and Mahurangi Winter Festival of Lights committees. As a member of the Board of Trustees of Ahuroa School, I take great pride in representing local families and their children.
Why are you standing for the Local Board election?
I am a product of this community. So many people have helped me and without those kind, respectful people I wouldn’t be who I am today. I appreciate our volunteers and I want to continue their good work and learn from our elders so that I may pass the teachings on to the next generation. I am standing to give representation for my generation and younger generations, we are the future and we need a voice.
What are the three main issues facing the Warkworth subdivision and/or Rodney as a whole?
• Support and education around environmental sustainability and zero waste.
• More involvement from our teens and young families in shaping our parks and public facilities.
• Ongoing support for our local businesses, social enterprises and non-government organisations.
Do you think the Dome Valley is the best place for a new landfill for Auckland?
We need a long term solution for waste, landfill is pollution and only delaying the inevitable. What will we do when we run out of space to hide rubbish? We need to reduce our waste, recycle, reuse, and reuse again what we can and give our kids the best shot they have at a clean planet.
What skills can you offer that other candidates can’t?
I bring a fresh charismatic perspective with love for our people and community, but above all else I will work as part of a team to see that we are effective, efficient and get the best outcomes. I understand the wellbeing challenges that 2019 presents to young people and young families; financial pressure, stress, anxiety and expensive housing.
What do you hope to achieve if elected?
All I have ever wanted is to work for my community. I love this place – the people. With the support of my team, Paul Manton and Beth Houlbrooke, we will work hard to pave the way for future generations to come.
Kaipara District Council,
Otamatea Ward Councillor (two seats)
Mark Vincent
Who are you?
I grew up in Hamilton. After secondary school, I completed an assignment with Volunteer Service Abroad in Fiji before starting a law degree in Wellington. My passion for the land ultimately led me to farming in Northland. I met and married Cindy, who brought three children to the marriage and they have provided us with nine grandchildren. We graze dairy heifers on our harbour-side property.
Why do you want to stand for the Otamatea Ward?
It has been my home base for the past 35 years, but I want to contribute to the future of the Kaipara District as a whole.
What is your number one priority if elected?
We need more people. This will help ensure the viability of existing businesses and community services, and open up more opportunities for new enterprises and improvements to functions. To achieve this, we need a roading network which is fit for purpose, and a district plan which enables development while protecting and enhancing our physical environment.
What other issues are important to you?
Council could do more to support existing community organisations in the district through facilitating governance training, strategic planning and helping with preparing funding applications. This will help to improve services and facilities using external funding rather than rates. The future of the Kaipara Harbour is also important to me, which is why I formed Otamatea HarbourCare. I want the KDC to continue its support for the Integrated Kaipara Harbour Management Group.
What skills and strengths do you have to offer?
Apart from my past experience as a senior manager at KDC, I have gained much governance experience through establishing Otamatea HarbourCare, and chairing the Kauri Museum board, successfully leading it through a restructuring to return it to a financially sustainable operation. I have been a member of the Kaipara and Whangarei district licensing committees for the last five years. I have a couple of farming diplomas and a post-graduate diploma in development studies and a practical and creative approach to problem solving.
Ian Miller
Who are you?
I’m formerly from West Auckland and now standing as a candidate for the Otamatea Ward in Kaipara. I live in Paparoa. With a background in engineering, journalism, information technology and business, I believe Kaipara needs to improve its roading maintenance, tourism planning and operational transparency.
What is your number one priority if elected?
Otamatea is an old ward with new boundaries. With a predominantly rural population, it is crucial that our roads, both unsealed and sealed, are up to scratch.
What other issues are important to you?
As the gateway to Kaipara and Northland, Otamatea has an important role to play in making sure our growing tourism numbers are adequately catered for. It’s important that every visitor feels welcomed and enjoys their time with us. Kaipara District also needs to do more to improve all ratepayers’ access to information. With increased access to Council information online, ratepayers should be able to see that their dollars are being spent wisely and that everyone is getting their fair share.
What skills and strengths do you have to offer?
Prior to moving to Paparoa, I had a long involvement with the Massey Birdwood Settlers Association in West Auckland. I offer a wealth of local government experience in my new home.
Other candidates for the Otamatea ward – Anna Curnow and Craig Jepson did not respond to Mahurangi Matters questions. Attempts to contact candidate Wayne Linton were unsuccessful.
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