- By Damian Light
I’m standing for Auckland Council to change how our city is run.
Locals are frustrated with lack of vision, progress and accountability.
We’re facing intensification, population growth, and an uncertain economy.
Not enough is being done to address wasteful spending, congestion, poor communication, or climate change.
We need representatives who understand their communities, investing time to listen and respond to residents, not just at election time.
Born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, I grew up in a large family with a strong ethic of community service, personal accountability, and social responsibility.
I love living here in Botany, at the heart of east Auckland where our incredibly diverse population provides opportunities to experience many cultures here at home.
I’m a problem solver with an analytical mind – for nearly 20 years I’ve worked in business improvement in large organisations.
I’ve led teams eliminating waste, improving service delivery, and cutting through bureaucracy.
As a member of the NZ Institute of Directors, I’m passionate about good governance, utilising my skills and experience to help community and business.
Three years ago I was humbled to be elected to the Howick Local Board, then as chairperson. I led the board through robust financial decisions, leading to less reliance on rates and enabling us to do more.
Delivering Te Taiwhanga Taiohi Youth Space, road safety improvements, and progressing vital Flat Bush facilities.
My vote for open workshops increased transparency and accountability.
After 15 years of the super city, council still struggles with basics like financial transparency.
Everyone should be able to see where public money is spent, but even elected members have to fight for basic information.
Despite spending over $5 billion a year, councillors haven’t allocated enough for local boards – Howick has less than half what’s needed to maintain our community assets.
We need councillors who will drive the transformation council so desperately needs.
If elected, 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.
