Viewpoint – Mr Fixit in the chair

As the incoming Mayor of Auckland, I’m grateful for and humbled by the support shown by the people of the Hibiscus Coast and the city for fixing Auckland.

After over 300 campaign appearances over the past few months, I spent Saturday night after the election celebrating with my family and supporters. It was great to be able to congratulate Albany Ward Councillor Wayne Walker on his re-election in person when he stopped by the party.

Last week I met with Wayne, John Watson and all other elected Councillors, in the more formal setting of the Mayor’s office, to learn about their interests and priorities. Wayne and John are proud advocates for the Hibiscus Coast and I will rely on them for insights into your community.

As Mayor, I want all councillors to have real responsibilities and accountabilities, so that all the skills around the table are brought together to deliver the change Aucklanders have demanded.

Along with getting to know the other elected team members, in my first few days I’ve focused on getting into the books to understand the fiscal and economic situation for the Council and Auckland. I campaigned on a laser-like focus on costs to make sure that Aucklanders aren’t saddled with unnecessary debt or out-of-control rate rises.

There are significant risks, and these have only been exacerbated by the global economic situation since the beginning of the year.

Essential services will always be protected, but the work to get bureaucratic waste under control starts now.

I have also been looking closely at the performance and governance of Council-Controlled Organisations, including Auckland Transport, Ports of Auckland, Eke Panuku and Auckland Unlimited, so that these agencies are delivering value for ratepayers and residents.

Decisions are best made by the people closest to them. The election sent a clear message to Wellington in that respect. The same applies within the city. Auckland isn’t just downtown in the city centre, even if that’s how it’s sometimes portrayed. It’s Franklin and Pukekohe, Warkworth and the Hibiscus Coast, and every community has different needs and priorities.

That’s why more decision-making and responsibility will be given back to local boards, because they are the people closest to their communities. I look forward to working with the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board chair and members as we all go about fixing Auckland.