Viewpoint – Working as your representative

As it’s my first time sharing a viewpoint in the amazing Hibiscus Matters, I thought it would be great to share a little more about myself as your only new local board representative. I’m a fifth generation local, deeply committed to the Hibiscus Coast and the people who call it home. I’ve been a local teacher for over 15 years, as well as raising two young daughters. I have a deeply rooted connection to our community’s past, present, and future. On the weekend, you can catch me at the Ōrewa Surf Lifesaving Club or the Silverdale Rugby Club, and I’m a proud supporter of both community organisations. 

When member Jake Law reached out to me about running for the local board, it didn’t take me long to decide to throw my hat in the ring. I want to make sure the Hibiscus Coast remains a safe connected, thriving community for everyone. I remain committed to service, integrity, and to making sure the community voice is heard while in this role. We need active representatives who will advocate for good outcomes for the Coast, and since I’ve been elected, the need for those representatives is even more apparent. 

What’s been great to see is that we really do have the power to bring about positive change for our community. Only a few weeks ago I, alongside other local board members, attended a protest in Army Bay to save our rockpools from being stripped of all intertidal species. Since then, hearing the community’s call, the Minister has announced a two year collection ban for the entire Whangaparāoa peninsula. Without dedicated locals like Mark Lenton and his team who have tirelessly advocated for rock pool ecology protection, we wouldn’t have such a positive outcome. 

It is hard to imagine what the life of a local representative is like, as we often know so little about what our local board members do. The role is quite varied, from meetings with council staff and community groups, to attending citizenship ceremonies, making site visits to see issues first hand, and preparing feedback on council and government plans. There is a lot to learn and I’m here for it! Local boards are complex entities and manage many aspects of local life, which can be daunting, yet I have a great team surrounding me who are very supportive. I’ve enjoyed connecting with people in the community who have been so welcoming. So stop and say hi if you see me out and about.