New Zealand National Party

7 March 2017

Lee to run for National in Maungakiekie

Denise Lee has been selected by National as its Maungakiekie candidate for the 2017 General Election.

Ms Lee is a proud mum and dedicated local who has lived in the area for close to 20 years. She currently serves on the Auckland Council representing the Maungakiekie-Tamaki ward, and has previous corporate experience in the United States.

“Maungakiekie is a place I’m deeply connected to, that I am proud to consider my home, so I’m thrilled to be selected,” Ms Lee says.

“The electorate takes in some incredibly diverse parts of Auckland, including Tamaki, Panmure, Penrose and Ellerslie. We’ve got hardworking families, great schools, and a huge range of fantastic local businesses.

“With my extensive local knowledge, I’m ready to hit the ground running and will be campaigning hard to ensure Maungakiekie continues to have an effective local MP working for them in Government.

“I’m grateful to outgoing MP Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga for his friendship, hardwork, and dedication to the area over the last few years. He’s been a tireless champion for both National and Maungakiekie.

“The National-led Government is helping the economy grow, building for future growth, and helping people most pressured by change.

"I’m hoping to earn Maungakiekie’s trust to join Bill English's united team that will build on the successes of the last few years, with a plan to make Kiwis better off at work and at home, and the means to achieve it.”

Denise Lee is a mother, community advocate, and former corporate services manager.

Graduating from Victoria University of Wellington with a Bachelor of Arts, Denise went on to complete a Master of Arts at Eastern College in Philadelphia. She lived in the United States for close to six years, holding positions with the Federal Government and Morgan Stanley Asset Management.

Upon returning to New Zealand to raise a family, Denise moved into Maungakiekie and became increasingly involved in the community, including serving as Chair of the Ellerslie School Board of Trustees and on the board of the Ellerslie Athletics Club.

She was first elected to the Auckland Council for the Maungakiekie-Tamaki ward in 2013, and currently serves as Deputy Chair of the Planning Committee, responsible for Housing, Transport & Infrastructure.

Outside of her Council duties, Denise is on the board for the Sir Peter Blake Marine Education Centre, and is a Patron for the Onehunga Historic Society and the Maungarei (Mt Wellington) Cadet unit.

She likes to water/snow ski and intends on entering her second demolition derby this year.

Denise is the daughter of former Parliamentarian and Minister Hon Graeme Lee.

ends

© Scoop Media