Damian Light has today confirmed that he will seek another term on the Howick Local Board and will also be campaigning for the role of Councillor.

“I'm pleased to announce that I intend to stand for the Howick Local Board and Auckland Council in the elections this October. I'm proud of the work we've done on the Howick Local Board over the past three years.” said Light “I've enjoyed the privilege of being the Chairperson, leading the Board through some significant challenges and rewarding successes.”

Faced with budget cuts and growing population, the Howick Local Board has made robust financial decisions, leading to less reliance on rates and enabling them to do more with less. Light says they have been focused on what the public asked them to, delivering for the community. Light used his casting vote to open workshops to the public, providing improved transparency and accountability.

“It's been a privilege to serve as one of the Members for Botany (including Flat Bush) over the past three years. We've worked hard to address the gaps, especially where the infrastructure hasn't kept pace with the population growth. By working with community partners we've done more and built a strong foundation for the future.”

In the past three years, the Board has opened Te Taiwhanga Taiohi East Auckland Youth Space, delivered safety improvements focused around schools, and made progress on the long awaited Community Centre and Library. The recently announced temporary library will provide space for communities to connect and grow, as the permanent facilities are designed and built. Flat Bush residents will get the representation they deserve with three dedicated Members on the Howick Local Board.

“But the work isn't finished and I intend to stand again for the Howick Local Board as a candidate for Botany. This is where I live, in the heart of East Auckland.” confirmed Light. “It’s been a privilege to serve the diverse communities of Howick, Pakūranga, Botany, and Flat Bush. I've seen local government at its best, empowering communities and embracing the incredible diversity of the people who call this city home.”

“I love this mahi - localism at its finest. Acknowledging the importance of local communities and their involvement in decisions that affect them. Supporting local businesses, strengthening community bonds, and fostering a sense of place and belonging.” said Light “Local Boards can achieve all of this and more, but they're been held back by poor policy and execution across council. “

After 15 years Auckland is still struggling with the basics like financial transparency and effective communication. Light believes this is symptomatic of a council that isn't living up to the promise of the super city. While it's been great to see Auckland push back to Government on unfunded mandates and unreasonable consultation timeframes, too often local boards suffer the same under council.

At a local level the impact of an organisation not structured to respond to local means outdated leases, poor enforcement, and even small issues requiring endless follow up. At a regional level Auckland is facing significant challenges of housing intensification, climate change, and an uncertain economic outlook.

“The last few years have proven to me yet again that the systemic issues at council are holding this city and its people back.” said Light. “Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland deserves a more ambitious, disciplined, and diverse council.”

Elected representatives need to understand their communities and invest the time to listen to their residents, not just at election time.

“I know our city has the potential to be incredible as I've seen glimpses of it. With the right people around the council table, we can achieve it. That's why I'm standing again for Councillor for the Howick Ward.” Light announced today. The Howick Ward has two councillors and covers the same area as the Local Board - Howick, Pakūranga, Botany and Flat Bush.

“I have proven that I will work tirelessly for my community. I would like to use my skills and experience to help our city. I’m grateful for the support I received when I stood in 2018, 2019, and 2022. It would be an honour and a privilege to serve as East Auckland's representative on council.”

“I will continue to be highly visible, results driven, and truly independent. I will utilise my passion for community, my experience in governance, and my knowledge of council to deliver for every resident of East Auckland.”

People can find out more about Damian Light and his campaign at damianlight.co.nz

Note:

• Light is an independent candidate, who led the centrist UnitedFuture party during the 2017 general election. The party was wound up in 2018 and he remains unaffiliated and independent.
• Light stood for the Howick Ward councillor position in the by-election in 2018, and local elections in 2019 and 2022.
• Light was elected to the Howick Local Board for his first term in 2022, and was elected as the Chairperson at its inaugural meeting.
• He has 20 years of experience in business improvement, has volunteered on the boards of a number of local not-for-profit community organisations, and is a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors.

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