Ken Turner, Sunil Kaushal And Craig Lord Announce Strategic Joint Campaign To Serve West Auckland
In a move that signals unity, shared values, and a deep commitment to public service, former mayoral candidate Craig Lord will be joining forces with current sitting Waitākere Councillor Ken Turner and his fellow running mate Sunil Kaushal, forming up under the “Westwards” banner for the 2025 Auckland Council elections .
While Turner and Kaushal are standing for the expansive Waitākere region, Lord is campaigning to become the Ward Councillor for Whau, an area that comprises the suburbs of New Lynn, Green Bay, Kelston, Rosebank, Avondale, New Windsor and Blockhouse Bay.
Together they will be campaigning in a coordinated effort to deliver stronger representation and more effective solutions for their shared West Auckland constituents.
“We are stronger when we work together,” said Lord. “By teaming up, we’re showing voters a way forward for the issues of West Auckland. Whau is the gateway to the West so it makes sense that we stand as one. This partnership will be constructive, cooperative, and focused on results.”
“Craig is running a separate race to Sunil and I, but our vision for the future is unified,” added Turner. “Having watched his previous mayoral campaigns closely, it was clear that he shared the same viewpoints as us - an alignment to common sense and ‘keeping it real’. This joint campaign under the Westwards banner allows us to better listen, respond, and lead as a team.”
“This is an exciting development for both the Waitākere and Whau Wards” notes Kaushal, “With the three of us working together as a block, the residents will have a clear understanding of what our goals are, and moreso, they can rely on us having each other's backs in the cut-throat world of bureaucracy and political office”
Recognising the advantages of collaboration and the importance of cohesive leadership, the joint “Westwards” candidates of Turner / Kaushal for Waitākere and Lord for Whau will align their policy platforms to amplify their impact across the West Auckland district.
All three candidates will continue to lead their individual campaigns, but the alliance is designed to reflect a mutual commitment for the West.
This historic collaboration sets a new tone for politics in the region - one grounded in partnership, integrity, and the needs of the people.
About Craig Lord
A maintenance and diagnostics engineer for 16 years, and media freelancer for 19, Craig was a mayoral candidate in 2019 and 2022. He brings a no-nonsense and fresh approach to the political world, with a strong focus on accountability and common sense actions.
He has lived in Blockhouse Bay for 28 years.
About Ken Turner
Fourth generation born & bred Waitākere Tradesman, Businessman, Farmer, Fisherman and Family man. Elected to the Waitakere Ranges Local Board in 2018 and Auckland Council Governing Body in 2022.
Ken has consistently delivered to the ratepayers as their eyes, ears and voice for the community, fighting against bureaucratic nonsense, working to replace it with common sense and practical outcomes.
About Sunhil Kaushal
A proud West Auckland local, seasoned financial expert, and dedicated community advocate. With over 20 years of experience in business and governance, he champions common-sense policies and grassroots leadership that reflect the values of the community he serves.