Viewpoint – Embracing summer

As we all settle into 2025, I hope you have had a chance to rest and replenish with your family and friends over what has proven to be a genuine summer. If you’ve been in Auckland over the holidays, you’ll have noticed the vibe of the ASB Tennis Classic kicking off the sporting year, the buzz on the waterfront as we hosted the first SailGP event and Moana Auckland Festival, which has evolved into a six-week celebration of ocean-inspired events in only its second year. Chinese New Year, Auckland Anniversary Weekend and Waitangi Day events have also provided opportunities to showcase our beautiful city and its lively communities.

These events have far-reaching benefits. It’s not just about the people who attend and the excitement they bring, it’s also about the broader impact on our economy. From local businesses, accommodation providers and transport operators to tourism. Events create jobs, stimulate growth and support our vibrant economy.

I’m sure that visitors, during their time here, will have taken in some of the top attractions across the region. In Warkworth, this includes the forest trails, arts and crafts, the Warkworth District Museum, the beautiful historic buildings that lend to the town’s charm and the stunning Sculptureum and Tāwharanui Regional Park, near Matakana.

I’ve also used the summer break to reflect on some of the achievements council has delivered on for Aucklanders in the past year. These successes include:
• Setting up the Auckland Future Fund
• Getting the lowest rates rise of any metropolitan council in the country
• Achieving a good deal on water reform
• Making the port earn more money
• Introducing a $50 weekly fare cap on public transport
• Taking back control of transport planning
• Getting the new waterfront swimming pool ready in time for summer

As mayor of this great city and region, walking the talk is crucial. We’ve made progress but there is still more to be done. I will have laser focus on building on the progress we’ve made and ensure it continues to align to the policies I was elected to deliver – fixing Auckland’s infrastructure, stopping the wasting of ratepayer money, progressing reforms that will see Aucklanders take back control of council organisations like Auckland Transport, get Auckland moving and making the most of our harbour and environment.

With trains now running, including between Pukekohe and Papakura, and a bit of sting left in the summer tail, there is still much to enjoy around the city. There’s the Lantern Festival and Pasifika, music and arts festivals and concerts, family day events, the museum and, locally, farmers markets, art exhibitions, gardens and the many swimming facilities and beaches across our fantastic city.

I’m looking forward to what the year brings and will continue to work hard to advocate for Aucklanders.