I have lived on the Coast for all my life, attending KingsWay School where I was a prefect in my final year. I am passionate about sports particularly basketball, tennis and netball, and I am involved in local sporting clubs, Love Soup and Northgate Church. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Auckland.
What are the three crucial issues facing the Hibiscus Coast?
The major issue is transport. I also believe that a significant issue in today’s climate is maintaining a sense of community and the preservation of our unique Coast character.
How would you address these?
In regards to transport, I think the majority of the Coast already knows that the implementation of Penlink is a MUST, as it would greatly help ease traffic on Whangaparaoa Road and provide an alternative exit off the peninsula. I will advocate for Penlink to ensure that the construction is brought forward. However, this has to be in conjunction with the increase of public transport services as congestion occurs around Greville Rd – more Gulf Harbour ferry services (especially with the development at Fairway Bay) and buses (expansion of the Silverdale Park n Ride).
Maintaining a sense of community can be achieved by encouraging and supporting local clubs and Council-sponsored events. Our unique Coast character can be preserved by having a balance between development and ensuring that we take care of our beautiful beaches and greenery. For example seeing the Archers Block turned into a reserve so everyone can reap the benefits of this unique and stunning piece of land.
This would be a great pairing with Penlink.
What do you hope to achieve as a member of the Local Board?
I am currently studying politics at university, and while I am discovering its complexity, I have learnt that it significantly shapes our lives and that we should not shy away from it.
I want to see that there is transparency in Council matters and that the public are more involved. I want to ensure that people are the number one priority in politics and that the local community receives its fair share in the supercity.
