upper north island candidates
pro-rail upper north island candidates running in the 2022 local body elections
Jake Law
Albany Ward, Auckland Council,
Hibiscus and Bays Local Board seat. jakelaw.co.nz
Running with Sylvia Yang for Albany ward , and running with a group of 4 for Hibiscus Coast
Kia ora! My name is Jake and I am running for Albany Ward Councillor and Hibiscus and Bays local board member in the upcoming local government elections. I speak English and Chinese, and have been a teacher at local and international schools for the past 5 years. I am currently the student president at Massey University's Albany campus, and am studying social policy and teaching part time. I am very passionate about community development and making sure the places we live are healthy, inclusive, accessible and sustainable. There is so much potential to better serve our communities in the future and we need to make sure we have energetic and engaged representatives.
After living in cities like Tokyo and seeing the benefits of light rail as a sustainable and well used infrastructure, I believe Auckland too can benefit from a stronger multi-modal transport system that serves our communities. Rail is efficient, environmentally friendly, and accessible to those who need transport options, and light rail to the north and northwest, as well as a network across the city that compliments the City Rail Link will be an incredible investment into future transport. I will call for the timeframe for rail implementation to be brought forward so that we can serve transport needs and ease congestion sooner. We need a viable rail link between airport and city center too, and I would support improvements to the current proposal that allow that link to be as efficient as possible. We've also seen fantastic success in intercity rail like the Te Huia service between Auckland and Hamilton, and I believe more city to city rail links will bring a massive benefit to the environment, economy, and the lives of all passengers.
After living in cities like Tokyo and seeing the benefits of light rail as a sustainable and well used infrastructure, I believe Auckland too can benefit from a stronger multi-modal transport system that serves our communities. Rail is efficient, environmentally friendly, and accessible to those who need transport options, and light rail to the north and northwest, as well as a network across the city that compliments the City Rail Link will be an incredible investment into future transport. I will call for the timeframe for rail implementation to be brought forward so that we can serve transport needs and ease congestion sooner. We need a viable rail link between airport and city center too, and I would support improvements to the current proposal that allow that link to be as efficient as possible. We've also seen fantastic success in intercity rail like the Te Huia service between Auckland and Hamilton, and I believe more city to city rail links will bring a massive benefit to the environment, economy, and the lives of all passengers.
Shane henderson
Waitakere ward, Auckland CouncilLabour
I currently represent you as Councillor for Waitakere, and I’m asking for your vote for re-election.I have lived here all my life, and I’m raising my young family in the West. Overcoming a rough start in life, I became a lawyer through hard work and support. I shunned the downtown firms to work at the community law centre in Henderson, giving free legal advice to low-income Westies.I feel we need to protect our public assets, invest in more transport options, and take action on climate change. We need a second public swimming pool and upgrades to our parks and playgrounds.My mission is based on hard work and dedication to helping Waitakere through tough times and into shared prosperity. I feel that every Westie should have the opportunity to follow their dreams.
I have always been and will continue to be a champion for public transport and the rail network. I feel that in suburban and semi-rural Auckland, connecting to the rail network needs more work, and I would like us to explore smaller sized buses travelling through the suburbs to link to rail and solve the first and last mile problem. I support public transport services starting in regional parks, with a summer trial in Piha to happen as soon as possible. We need large mode shift to meet climate goals and improve our city's connectivity.
I currently represent you as Councillor for Waitakere, and I’m asking for your vote for re-election.I have lived here all my life, and I’m raising my young family in the West. Overcoming a rough start in life, I became a lawyer through hard work and support. I shunned the downtown firms to work at the community law centre in Henderson, giving free legal advice to low-income Westies.I feel we need to protect our public assets, invest in more transport options, and take action on climate change. We need a second public swimming pool and upgrades to our parks and playgrounds.My mission is based on hard work and dedication to helping Waitakere through tough times and into shared prosperity. I feel that every Westie should have the opportunity to follow their dreams.
I have always been and will continue to be a champion for public transport and the rail network. I feel that in suburban and semi-rural Auckland, connecting to the rail network needs more work, and I would like us to explore smaller sized buses travelling through the suburbs to link to rail and solve the first and last mile problem. I support public transport services starting in regional parks, with a summer trial in Piha to happen as soon as possible. We need large mode shift to meet climate goals and improve our city's connectivity.
Julie Fairey
Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa ward, Auckland Council
City Vision www.cityvision.org.nz
For the past twelve years I've been a champion for public and active transport on the Puketāpapa Local Board of Auckland Council, covering the greater Mt Roskill area, with Roskill Community Voice. I often end up working with others to help make things better, in ways we can't achieve alone. In addition to doing this through local government, in the recent past I've also been involved in working for positive change on women's issues, children's rights, climate action and social justice.
Auckland's transport system is soon to get a transformational change with the City Rail Link's completion, but there is a lot more to do to really make our public transport system work for the region. I strongly support light rail for the isthmus, and in the future for the north and west, and we will need to realign our bus system around those spines as they are built. I want to see better integration of active transport modes with public transport, in particular addressing making it safer for people to move around their own community by foot and wheel, and be able to get on bus, rail or ferry to go further afield. We need to make it possible for everyone to participate without needing to own a car to do so. Rail plays a crucial role as the heavy mover for passengers in our regional transport system, and could be much better used for freight movements as well as transporting people to other parts of Aotearoa NZ. I'm keen to support those initiatives at the Council table and will continue to be an advocate for including those working in these industries in consultation processes.
Damian Light
Auckland Council - Howick wardIndependent damianlight.co.nz
I have over 15 years of business improvement experience, working in large, complex organisations eliminating waste, improving delivery and cutting through bureaucracy. I’m a member of New Zealand Institute of Directors, with community and commercial governance experience. Part of my professional experience includes working for KiwiRail (and it's predecessors) for 12 years in the freight division, initially in customer services and later in process improvement. As a senior manager in the shared service center during multiple ownership models, I gained a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities that rail faces in our country.
I'm a passionate supporter of public transport which is my primary way of getting around our city. We need to stop thinking of public transport and the necessary infrastructure as a cost and rather as an investment that will unlock the economic, social and environmental potential of Auckland. Specific priorities for me if elected: - Finish the CRL that is critical to increasing our existing rail capacity;- Ensure that all future transport projects consider future proofing for light or heavy rail;- Continue to invest in public transport and active mode connections to the passenger rail network;- Reduction in public transport fares, through targeted discounts for those on fixed or low incomes and serious investigation into making it free for all;- Encourage implementation of national ticketing system to connect and support interregional travel and tourism;- Undertake strategic redesign of our national freight network to better utilise rail as backbone of integrated logistics.
I'm a passionate supporter of public transport which is my primary way of getting around our city. We need to stop thinking of public transport and the necessary infrastructure as a cost and rather as an investment that will unlock the economic, social and environmental potential of Auckland. Specific priorities for me if elected: - Finish the CRL that is critical to increasing our existing rail capacity;- Ensure that all future transport projects consider future proofing for light or heavy rail;- Continue to invest in public transport and active mode connections to the passenger rail network;- Reduction in public transport fares, through targeted discounts for those on fixed or low incomes and serious investigation into making it free for all;- Encourage implementation of national ticketing system to connect and support interregional travel and tourism;- Undertake strategic redesign of our national freight network to better utilise rail as backbone of integrated logistics.
Ryan nicholls
Kaipātiki Local BoardLiving Kaipātiki
Kia ora, I’m Ryan Nicholls. I’m a university student, a cyclist and a daily public transport user. I’m standing for the Kaipātiki Local Board. I grew up in Totara Vale and continue to call this area home.
I’m standing for local board because I want to bring a fresh new perspective to local government. I want to be a representative for future generations and ensure that the decisions we make now are fit for the decades to come.
I’m a strong advocate for rail on the North Shore. I’ve seen how the Northern Busway has transformed public transport on the North Shore over the last decade and a half, and I believe its full potential can be unlocked with a conversion to light rail. This will enable greater capacity and speed, as well as unlocking further connections across Auckland. It’s critical that any additional harbour crossing is rail and active modes only.
I believe a transport system that works for everyone is one that gives people genuine choices. We need a truly multi-modal transport system, with rail, buses, ferries, bikes, and walking all working together. Frequent local buses, safe cycle infrastructure, and walking paths are all just as important as core rapid transit routes. As a local board member I will do what I can to make many of these smaller things happen.
Kia ora, I’m Ryan Nicholls. I’m a university student, a cyclist and a daily public transport user. I’m standing for the Kaipātiki Local Board. I grew up in Totara Vale and continue to call this area home.
I’m standing for local board because I want to bring a fresh new perspective to local government. I want to be a representative for future generations and ensure that the decisions we make now are fit for the decades to come.
I’m a strong advocate for rail on the North Shore. I’ve seen how the Northern Busway has transformed public transport on the North Shore over the last decade and a half, and I believe its full potential can be unlocked with a conversion to light rail. This will enable greater capacity and speed, as well as unlocking further connections across Auckland. It’s critical that any additional harbour crossing is rail and active modes only.
I believe a transport system that works for everyone is one that gives people genuine choices. We need a truly multi-modal transport system, with rail, buses, ferries, bikes, and walking all working together. Frequent local buses, safe cycle infrastructure, and walking paths are all just as important as core rapid transit routes. As a local board member I will do what I can to make many of these smaller things happen.
kathy voyles
Waiheke Local Board
Green Party https://auckland.greens.org.nz/kathy
Kia ora,
I am Kathy Voyles and I am running for Waiheke Local Board. As you may know we have a ferry to Auckland city and when there we are completely reliant on either taxi or PT to get around the city. I absolutely love trains, trams & buses having lived in The Hague in The Netherlands for quite a few decades. One of the joys of living in a train connected country such as The Netherlands is that you can travel so easily from city to city (with a bike) & simply sit back & enjoy the ride. So stress free, so good for the environment to get one more car off the road.
When I was young, I used to take the Northerner regularly to Wellington back to study from Morrinsville. Fantastic to read on, and watch the country go by. Just a lovely thing.
We need to invest heavily in intercity links to our major cities. I would prefer to be on a train, than on a bike cycling along our former rail lines. I want trains in my closest city & intercity trains for people (not just frieght) all over our country. Plus direct freight to the Ports of Auckland. We should absolutely NOT have those trucks going through the city day and night!
I am Kathy Voyles and I am running for Waiheke Local Board. As you may know we have a ferry to Auckland city and when there we are completely reliant on either taxi or PT to get around the city. I absolutely love trains, trams & buses having lived in The Hague in The Netherlands for quite a few decades. One of the joys of living in a train connected country such as The Netherlands is that you can travel so easily from city to city (with a bike) & simply sit back & enjoy the ride. So stress free, so good for the environment to get one more car off the road.
When I was young, I used to take the Northerner regularly to Wellington back to study from Morrinsville. Fantastic to read on, and watch the country go by. Just a lovely thing.
We need to invest heavily in intercity links to our major cities. I would prefer to be on a train, than on a bike cycling along our former rail lines. I want trains in my closest city & intercity trains for people (not just frieght) all over our country. Plus direct freight to the Ports of Auckland. We should absolutely NOT have those trucks going through the city day and night!
Robert Gore
Waitakere Ranges Local BoardWestWards
After University I spent four years working in Construction roofing and scaffolding. I currently work as the Office Manager at a small industrial process plant in West Auckland. My work experience has been broad to say the least; sales, labouring, accounts and business administration. It's given me a grounding in several different fields and how to solve problems.
For my area, the key projects that will deliver concrete and tangible benefits in the short term are re-establishing commuter services on the North Auckland Line beyond Swanson, and completing the Avondale-Southdown Connection on the Western Line. Commuter services beyond Swanson were formally terminated in 2009, but improvements since, including the City Rail Link, electrification and rejuvenation of the North Auckland Line, mean its time to seriously consider passenger rail for communities in the North West as an alternative to congestion of SH16.
The other project is about fulfilling the original vision of Auckland isthmus rail system. Building a line between Avondale and Southdown would allow freight to divert off the Western Line and reduce the competition for space between freight and passenger services. In future, the line could provide a connection for commuters going from West Auckland to South Auckland for work without multiple bus transfers, and to the Airport once a connection between Puhinui and the Airport is built.
For the Waitakere Ranges, reviving our heritage Tramline in the Ranges would be an amazing way to attract tourism to the area and create local employment. The rail we restore from the past is no less important than the rail we build in the future, and the Rainforest Express provided a unique experience with a far lower environmental footprint that attracts visitors, domestic and international, to the Waitakere Ranges.
These projects fit into my vision of what a smart, sustainable and efficient transport system looks like of which rail holds a major role in providing a lower emission alternative to freight on roads and people in cars.
For my area, the key projects that will deliver concrete and tangible benefits in the short term are re-establishing commuter services on the North Auckland Line beyond Swanson, and completing the Avondale-Southdown Connection on the Western Line. Commuter services beyond Swanson were formally terminated in 2009, but improvements since, including the City Rail Link, electrification and rejuvenation of the North Auckland Line, mean its time to seriously consider passenger rail for communities in the North West as an alternative to congestion of SH16.
The other project is about fulfilling the original vision of Auckland isthmus rail system. Building a line between Avondale and Southdown would allow freight to divert off the Western Line and reduce the competition for space between freight and passenger services. In future, the line could provide a connection for commuters going from West Auckland to South Auckland for work without multiple bus transfers, and to the Airport once a connection between Puhinui and the Airport is built.
For the Waitakere Ranges, reviving our heritage Tramline in the Ranges would be an amazing way to attract tourism to the area and create local employment. The rail we restore from the past is no less important than the rail we build in the future, and the Rainforest Express provided a unique experience with a far lower environmental footprint that attracts visitors, domestic and international, to the Waitakere Ranges.
These projects fit into my vision of what a smart, sustainable and efficient transport system looks like of which rail holds a major role in providing a lower emission alternative to freight on roads and people in cars.
greg presland
Waitakere Ranges Local BoardFuture West – Labour Green community independent coalitionhttps://gregpresland.com/
I am a lawyer, former Waitakere City Councillor and currently serving my fourth term on the local board. I was also previously a director of Land Transport New Zealand and this gave me good insight into the funding and management of transport. I was a Councillor when Auckland's double tracking and electrification of the rail lines commenced and I was very supportive of the project and I am really pleased with the way that it has worked out. And I am a firm supporter of the proposal for light rail through Auckland Isthmus and to the airport.
I have spent time overseas in the big Asian cities such as Tokyo, Shanghai and Seoul and I have experienced what can be achieved with good quality rail infrastructure. With climate change one of our most threatening of issues the need to move our transport into more sustainable modes has never been more apparent. To get our city to carbon neutrality will require the current rail system to be significantly enhanced. Light rail to the airport is a start but there also needs to be conversion of the North Shore bus network into rail and also rail to Kumeu and beyond. And we should be talking about a high speed rail link between Auckland and Wellington to reduce the need for air travel.
I have spent time overseas in the big Asian cities such as Tokyo, Shanghai and Seoul and I have experienced what can be achieved with good quality rail infrastructure. With climate change one of our most threatening of issues the need to move our transport into more sustainable modes has never been more apparent. To get our city to carbon neutrality will require the current rail system to be significantly enhanced. Light rail to the airport is a start but there also needs to be conversion of the North Shore bus network into rail and also rail to Kumeu and beyond. And we should be talking about a high speed rail link between Auckland and Wellington to reduce the need for air travel.
mark allen
Waitākere Ranges Local Board FutureWest
I live in Te Henga/Bethells Beach I am Executive Officer for Community Waitākere, a community development, environmental restoration and climate change organisation in West Auckland. I worked in local government for 30 years the last 10 as a local board advisor. I am running again for the Waitakere Ranges local board.
Two local priorities are bus services to our coastal & bush communities and train services north for Waitakere, Kumeu and Helensville.I am also keen we move to smaller buses and electric.Across Tāmaki Makaurau we need more PT more active mode routes and more local links/Greenways.Nationally we need to reinstate city to city rail links and infrastructure and soon! Air travel needs to be replaced for many. The social, economic and environmental benefits of rebuilding our rail network back faster are numerous. Its a no brainer!!
Jessamine Fraser
Waitākere Ranges Local Board
Green Party https://auckland.greens.org.nz/jessaminefraser
Future West https://futurewest.wpcomstaging.com
I’m an architect and environmentalist, and I look forward to bringing my expertise in housing and urban form to the local board, as well as skills in project management & co-ordinating inter-disciplinary teams for a common goal. As we build Auckland we need to ensure the protection of our trees and green spaces. We need walkable, bike friendly neighbourhoods connected to the wider city with good public transport. Accessibility and diversity are key to creating strong communities, and I am committed to working with the local community to build a thriving and resilient future for all.
Catching the train from Glen Eden Station an easy and pleasant way to get to the city. I’d like to see the the Western rail-line extended on the old northern train all the way to Whangarei as part of the intercity and regional rail system. I support Efeso Collins’ call for free public transport, as transport is both an equity and a climate change issue. Future West continues to advocate for shuttle bus links between Glen Eden and Swanson train stations and the Outer Settlements. This would give these communties better access to the rest of the city, including schools, universities, workplaces, and healthcare. Additionally such shuttle buses would give ease of access to beaches like Piha & Te Henga for many others in the city, without the need for car reliance. Connecting Glen Eden and Swanson up to the wider city cycle network is essential for safe transport options.
Catching the train from Glen Eden Station an easy and pleasant way to get to the city. I’d like to see the the Western rail-line extended on the old northern train all the way to Whangarei as part of the intercity and regional rail system. I support Efeso Collins’ call for free public transport, as transport is both an equity and a climate change issue. Future West continues to advocate for shuttle bus links between Glen Eden and Swanson train stations and the Outer Settlements. This would give these communties better access to the rest of the city, including schools, universities, workplaces, and healthcare. Additionally such shuttle buses would give ease of access to beaches like Piha & Te Henga for many others in the city, without the need for car reliance. Connecting Glen Eden and Swanson up to the wider city cycle network is essential for safe transport options.
Chimene del la Varis
Henderson-Masey Local Board
Green Party https://auckland.greens.org.nz/chimenedellavaris
I’m Chimene del la Varis. A graduate in linguistics and Journalism, I have a valuable skill-set in unpacking and communicating issues of climate emergency and social inequity.
In my time as a regional reporter in Gisborne and Hamilton, I followed the debate around whether to mothball or resuscitate the major rail links carrying passengers and freight between cities.
It seems clear to me that well-funded regional and urban rail is going to be essential for a smooth transition to the low-emission economy outlined by the recent Sustainable Public Transport Framework.
Auckland Council has committed to the Transport Emissions Reduction Pathway and urban rail offers a reliable, affordable and low-emission option for commuters.
I find critics of rail consistently undervalue its benefits. The flow on effects of taking cars off our roads include better road safety, fewer fatalities and lowering overall fuel costs and consumption.
Henderson-Massey is served by the Western Line which runs between Swanson and the CBD. It plays a vital role in reducing congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.
The introduction of a host of new legislation this year including the Natural and Built Environments, Strategic Planning and Climate Adaption Bill means our local politicians will need a firm grasp of how these reforms can best work for our area.
Let’s tackle the challenges of climate change together. Vote Chimene del la Varis for Henderson-Massey.
In my time as a regional reporter in Gisborne and Hamilton, I followed the debate around whether to mothball or resuscitate the major rail links carrying passengers and freight between cities.
It seems clear to me that well-funded regional and urban rail is going to be essential for a smooth transition to the low-emission economy outlined by the recent Sustainable Public Transport Framework.
Auckland Council has committed to the Transport Emissions Reduction Pathway and urban rail offers a reliable, affordable and low-emission option for commuters.
I find critics of rail consistently undervalue its benefits. The flow on effects of taking cars off our roads include better road safety, fewer fatalities and lowering overall fuel costs and consumption.
Henderson-Massey is served by the Western Line which runs between Swanson and the CBD. It plays a vital role in reducing congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.
The introduction of a host of new legislation this year including the Natural and Built Environments, Strategic Planning and Climate Adaption Bill means our local politicians will need a firm grasp of how these reforms can best work for our area.
Let’s tackle the challenges of climate change together. Vote Chimene del la Varis for Henderson-Massey.
Brooke Loader
Henderson-Massey Local Board
Waitākere Licensing Trust (Te Atatū Ward) Labour
I’m a local lawyer, small business owner and mum, and I love raising my family here so am seeking to be re-elected to continue building a Henderson-Massey that we’re proud to call home. From humble beginnings, my working journey began washing cars at my father’s caryard. I learnt the values of compassion and community service at my mother’s side, through providing a budgeting service for those in need. I have worked hard alongside our community to deliver results, but there is so much more to do. I’ll work to upgrade key public parks, unclog our motorways with real transport options, and encourage initiatives that empower our diverse communities and care for our environment.
I have been brought up with a sense of pride in public transport. My parents were bus drivers who brought us up appreciating public transport. I have fond memories of spending our weekends having transport adventures by bike, bus, train and ferry, going to the speedway and truck racing, and spending hours at the caryard. Public transport was essential through my school and university days to get around. In my role as an elected member, this has grounded me as a strong public transport advocate, as I believe that every person should have the equal opportunity to access public transport. Our transport system is set to become even more efficient once the CRL has been completed, but I believe that we need to advocate for a better public transport and rail network that meets international standards, to better connect our communities and ensure that as a Council we meet our climate-change goals.
I’m a local lawyer, small business owner and mum, and I love raising my family here so am seeking to be re-elected to continue building a Henderson-Massey that we’re proud to call home. From humble beginnings, my working journey began washing cars at my father’s caryard. I learnt the values of compassion and community service at my mother’s side, through providing a budgeting service for those in need. I have worked hard alongside our community to deliver results, but there is so much more to do. I’ll work to upgrade key public parks, unclog our motorways with real transport options, and encourage initiatives that empower our diverse communities and care for our environment.
I have been brought up with a sense of pride in public transport. My parents were bus drivers who brought us up appreciating public transport. I have fond memories of spending our weekends having transport adventures by bike, bus, train and ferry, going to the speedway and truck racing, and spending hours at the caryard. Public transport was essential through my school and university days to get around. In my role as an elected member, this has grounded me as a strong public transport advocate, as I believe that every person should have the equal opportunity to access public transport. Our transport system is set to become even more efficient once the CRL has been completed, but I believe that we need to advocate for a better public transport and rail network that meets international standards, to better connect our communities and ensure that as a Council we meet our climate-change goals.
jessica rose
Whau Local Board
Green Party https://auckland.greens.org.nz/jessica
I have 6 years experience as an elected member and live locally in the small eco-home I self built with my partner. You may have seen me around town on my mint green ebike. I have worked in property development, where I have specialised in sustainability, low emissions transport, and placemaking. I currently work in conservation, alongside my elected position. I have a postgraduate degree in business and came to Local Board via community volunteer work. Protecting our environment for current and future generations is what motivates me to do this mahi.
I'm a high user of PT and live directly adjacent to the Western Line. Climate action is my highest priority which is why I have been vocal about connected PT and active modes transport in my last two elected terms. I still am.
I've been openly advocating for investment into progressing the Southdown Line, this is the rail connection that runs from West to South that is a major hole in the current PT network for us in Whau.
PT users need priority over private and petrol-based mode users (bring on electric busses). Think things like bus stops with green rooves, intercity rail service, and tea service carriages. Cost must not be a barrier for anyone to using PT.
I know that the ‘first mile and last mile’ that bit between getting to a station or stop from home, can be a challenge. I want to see deliberate renewal funding for a nicer journey on these local routes with universal accessibility, walking, cycling and increased street trees.
I'm a high user of PT and live directly adjacent to the Western Line. Climate action is my highest priority which is why I have been vocal about connected PT and active modes transport in my last two elected terms. I still am.
I've been openly advocating for investment into progressing the Southdown Line, this is the rail connection that runs from West to South that is a major hole in the current PT network for us in Whau.
PT users need priority over private and petrol-based mode users (bring on electric busses). Think things like bus stops with green rooves, intercity rail service, and tea service carriages. Cost must not be a barrier for anyone to using PT.
I know that the ‘first mile and last mile’ that bit between getting to a station or stop from home, can be a challenge. I want to see deliberate renewal funding for a nicer journey on these local routes with universal accessibility, walking, cycling and increased street trees.
Pamela Mills
Candidate for Puketāpapa Local BoardRoskill Community Voice
I just returned from Naarm/Melbourne after ten years abroad in the city of trams and multiple train lines. I grew up in Mt Roskill/Puketāpapa, where my interest in local government began from a young age. I am a Project Manager with over eight years’ experience managing major projects in the public and not-for-profit sector and come to you with the ability to make plans come to life. Before I moved to Melbourne, I was a member of the HOP card project at Auckland Transport, where we saw integrated ticketing become a convenient, paperless reality for the Auckland community.
After living in a place with such great public transport, I have witnessed what accessible transport can do for people’s freedom and mobility in big cities. A well-designed train station and Rail to Roskill will do wonders for lifting up the local business district and be a central hub for people to not only catch the train but access key services like buying food, going to school and most importantly, not clogging up our roads or air with cars and the carbon that cars emit. I see huge potential in what rail can do for my beloved home and I can’t wait to make that dream happen with your support.
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Bobby shen
Candidate for Puketāpapa Local BoardRoskill Community Voice
I am a current elected member of the Puketāpapa Local Board of Auckland Council, raised in Mt Roskill. I have a background in architectural design and am now dedicating my career to sustainable buildings and climate action. I have a huge interest in urban design, planning and transport as well as the environment equity, diversity and inclusion.
The Puketāpapa Mt Roskill area is central to the isthmus but a desert to the rail system; the lines do not come nearby but we are otherwise well connected by frequent bus routes and the SH20 motorway and cycleway networks. There has always been a corridor of rail land set aside for this purpose and it would connect Mt Roskill to the north and south were rail to be extended here creating equitable opportunity and a great connection to some major employment centres such as the City Centre and the Airport precinct without needing to rely on a private motor vehicle. Personally, I enjoy using the train to connect bicycle journeys, as far as Papakura to West Auckland it has served me well. The current trip to get to the nearest train station is not cycle friendly nor is it close enough for a less-seasoned cyclist to get to from our area. Rail will bring a fair and reliable transport option for many and is a step in the right direction for Tāmaki Makaurau’s decarbonisation work.