But sadly, due to ideologically driven agendas, cheap politics, and imported culture wars these rights are still under threat.

This day and every day I say to our trans whānau - you are seen, loved, and valued.

Transgender rights are human rights and the most fundamental is the right to self determination. Thanks to the unwavering determination and solidarity of many, we have made incredible progress.

As of January 2025, these are open to the public by default. While everyone is welcome to attend to observe open sessions, there is no opportunity for the public to speak or ask questions.

Workshops are informal sessions used to canvass issues, prepare local board members for upcoming decisions and to enable discussion between elected members and staff. We don't make decisions here - they're made at our monthly business meetings.

On closed agenda (11-11:45am, 12:45-4pm)
- Eastern Busway
- Communications
- Playground Fencing Proposal Cockle Bay
- Leases for Howick Sailing Club & Bucklands Beach Yacht Club

On open agenda (11:45am-12:45pm)
- Engagement Update

See agenda here: aucklandcouncil.resolve.red/portal/meeti...

Come hang out, grab a bite, and enjoy all the good vibes - kids’ entertainment, face painting, a Girl Guides sausage sizzle, plus coffee and ice cream to keep you going.

✅ FREE entry - bring the whole whānau/family/crew!

Our destination playground offers play for all ages and abilities, nature play zones, and accessible pathways. We’ve also refreshed the Wetlands Building with new seating and a chill area for longer visits.

Your feedback now will help us put together the draft Local Board Plan 2026. That draft will come back to the community later in 2026 for formal consultation and feedback.

Your ideas will:
🤔help us understand what matters most to your community
🎯shape the priorities and goals that guide future projects and services.
📑influence local decision-making before detailed plans are drafted.

On closed agenda
(10:45am - 2pm)
- Local Board Annual Planning Workshop 1
- Lloyd Elsmore Skatepark Update
- Howick Library and Fencibles Lounge
- Comprehensive Renewal Delivery Update

On open agenda (2-3:30pm)
- Auckland Transport: The Parade, Stanniland Street

As of Jan 2025, these are open to the public by default. While everyone is welcome to attend to observe, there is no opportunity for the public to speak or ask questions.

We also still need to close some sessions to protect sensitive information which isn't ready for public release yet.

Workshops are informal sessions used to canvass issues, prepare local board members for upcoming decisions and to enable discussion between elected members and staff. We don't make decisions here - they're made at our monthly business meetings.

On closed agenda (10:00am - 12noon)
- Local Board Annual Planning Workshop 1
- Lloyd Elsmore Skatepark Update

On open workshop agenda (12:30-2:30pm)
- Howick Library and Fencibles Lounge - Comprehensive
Renewal Delivery Update
- Auckland Transport: The Parade, Stanniland Street

Thank you Heather. I'll keep trying to improve our communication and transparency.

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is facing significant challenges - intensification & population growth; transport & RMA reform; funding & uncertain economy. None of this will be easy to tackle, but I remain committed to delivering for our communities as a Member of Howick Local Board.

Regardless of the outcome, I'm very grateful for the support I received, both around the table and from the wider community. Unburdened by the duties of the Chair, I'm looking forward to continuing to represent the Botany community over the next three years.

Unfortunately some members chose to take a different approach and ultimately they won by a slim majority (6 vs 5).

An effort to elect an experienced Deputy for the beginning of the term to help smooth the transition also failed.