Long-serving Howick Local Board member Katrina Bungard is standing for re-election in the Pakuranga subdivision, reaffirming her strong commitment to the community she has proudly served for over a decade.
A former deputy chair of the local board, Bungard is known for her focus on financial accountability and her determination to curb unnecessary council spending.
She consistently advocates for value for ratepayers, high-quality facilities, and the delivery of practical, community-focused services.
Bungard lives and works locally. Her two teenage sons attend local schools, and her family heritage traces back to Pakuranga’s earliest settlers – reinforcing her deep roots in the community and her drive to preserve it for future generations.
Her dedication to service is also shaped by personal experience.
Diagnosed with childhood bone cancer at age 11, she became an above-knee amputee as part of her treatment.
Now in full remission, she leads a healthy and active lifestyle and credits much of her resilience to the support she received from organisations such as Canteen and Camp Quality.
These formative experiences sparked a lifelong commitment to supporting others facing similar challenges.
Today, Bungard is a respected advocate in the health and disability sectors.
She serves as president of the Auckland Amputee Society, is a director of the Amputee Federation of New Zealand, and deputy chairperson of the Manukau East Council of Social Services (MECOSS).
She also volunteers as a peer supporter for the Artificial Limb Service and continues to work across multiple health and disability organisations, promoting equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
Professionally, Bungard holds master’s degrees in Public Policy, Educational Leadership, and Specialist Teaching.
She’s a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors, and a specialist teacher supporting students with complex educational needs across our community.
With 20 years of experience in education, including previous roles as a deputy principal and head of department, Bungard brings valuable insight into the challenges faced by local youth and their families.
Bungard is standing on the platform of trusted, experienced and locally grounded representation, and would appreciate your support.
