It’s time to elect our champions for a bikeable Auckland!
Voting begins 20 September and ends 12 October.
Our Call to Action
This is a watershed year for our city. Aucklanders want to cycle safely for everyday trips. Our children deserve to be able to bike to school. And we all want to escape congestion. We face a growing health crisis, a road safety crisis, and the climate clock is ticking.
Who wins the 2019 election will shape not just the coming three years, but our future beyond. That’s why we’re calling for hands-on visionaries. Bold, bike-friendly champions who feel the urgency and will get straight to work on our behalf.
We need a bikeable city – and we need it now. Check out our call to action – and then scroll down to find out which candidates are ready to roll.
1. BOLD AND COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP
We need unapologetic champions for a healthy city.
Just as Bike Auckland is your voice for a more bikeable city, our elected representatives are your voice at the table where things get decided.
That’s why we need leaders who are loud and clear on the benefits of a bike-friendly city. Champions who are ready to call everyone to account, and capable of building alliances to get things done.
The record shows that Aucklanders are ready for bikeable neighbourhoods. Research shows 60% of us would ride if it felt safer, and 65% of us agree that cycleways are good for our neighbourhoods. When you build bike paths, the people show up: ridership is up 8.2% citywide – and the new, improved, connected bike paths are growing by 20% or more, year on year.
With transport making up a huge chunk of Auckland’s greenhouse gas emissions, we all urgently need more sustainable ways to get from A to B. As demonstrated by the speedy shift away from plastic bags, people are up for positive change. We just need our leaders to step up and show the way.
Our call to candidates: Lead us towards a better future, so we can get there in time.
2. VITAL INVESTMENT FOR A HEALTHY CITY
As a wise person once said: “Don’t tell me what you value – show me your budget, and I’ll tell you what you value.” Thanks to years of campaigning and advocacy by Bike Auckland and others, the budget for cycling and active transport has finally begun to match the need.
But it’s still minuscule, compared to what’s needed:
- Auckland has a ten-year plan for a basic bike network – but with the current budget, it’ll take two decades to build and still won’t touch most of the city.
- Auckland Transport’s new Vision Zero policy promises protected cycleways to keep more of us safe – but there’s no extra safety funding for cycling.
- Auckland Council’s Climate Action Framework aims to build better bike infrastructure “at scale and at pace”… but, you guessed it, there’s no investment to match.
… yet. When Council next sets the budget, it must match all those proudly owned priorities and policies. The same is true when Local Boards vote on how to spend their transport and safety funding.
Our call to candidates: Show us your budgets that truly value what you say you value.
3. QUICK WINS FOR REAL CHANGE
We need smart, economical solutions that get the city moving.
We’re realists and pragmatists. We know it takes effort and investment to transform a car-centric city so more of us can walk, bike, or scoot safely for everyday trips.
We also know that every dollar invested in active transport returns many times more in social benefits – by creating safer and healthier neighbourhoods, free-moving streets for all, a city where parents can confidently let go of a child’s hand.
That’s why we need representatives who are ready to seize every possible opportunity to encourage safe and healthy travel, now, across the city, for Aucklanders of all ages.
Luckily, we can learn a lot from other successful cities, and there are heaps of smart, sensible actions you can take from day one:
- Champion “pop-up protection” for bike lanes, and tactical urbanism approaches that give people a chance to experience the change
- Build walking and biking links to schools, shops, and public transport, so Aucklanders have real alternatives to going everywhere by car
- Dig once, spend once, do it right: a complete streets policy means every time a road is renewed or upgraded, it will be made safer for walking and biking
- Make space for the new micro-mobility without squeezing us all onto the footpaths – the future is here, and growing by the day
- Speak up for survivable speeds to make our streets quieter, safer, and much more welcoming, especially for the young and old
Our call to candidates: Be smart and creative to deliver the real and rapid transformation we need now.
The candidates, in their own words
As more responses come to hand, we will update the content below. We also strongly encourage you to round out the picture of candidates, their record, and what they stand for, by reading widely – including climate and transport policy scorecards, plus candidate surveys by local bike groups.
A note to candidates: Are you standing for election, and ready to pledge support for our call to action?
Phil Goff
Independent
Read statement
That’s fantastic, and we need to keep going in that direction. It’s great that we are building cycling in places like Karangahape Rd where we will deliver safe infrastructure that will get more people to bike. More cycling means better health outcomes and fewer emissions, and contributes to less congestion.
We need to speed up the delivery of the 52kms of cycleways we and government have promised to build along with government. We need to look at places we can get quick wins and trial good ideas while we work on getting the big stuff done. In particular, I’m keen to increase the number of young people walking and cycling by creating safe ways to do so. It would be great to build back the number of school students getting out of cars during the peak period and riding to school.
Website FacebookAnnalucia Vermunt
Communist League
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Brendan Maddern
Independent
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Genevieve Forde
Independent
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Bicycles and public transport are the way of the present and the future! Healthy, pollution-free climate friendly! The end of traffic congestion, air pollution, noise and stress!
Susanna Kruger
Justice for Families
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Glen Snelgar
Old Skool
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I remember a time when people would use bikes to get around Auckland when traffic levels were much lower. I can even remember people riding horses on the semi-rural roads in my area.
I support Auckland Transport’s vision to make arterial roads multi-modal. However, I differ with AT about where these corridors should be installed. Their record so far has shown community protests and little uptake by cyclists.
For example, in my area, a cycle lane was installed on Puhinui Road which has never been used. In contrast, Te Irirangi Drive is an 80kph highway which is frequently used by cyclists despite not having a cycle lane.
In addition, I want to see a law change that would allow scooters and other personal transport to be used on cycle lanes (which I will rename “Earth Lanes”). Footpaths are for feet. Roads are for vehicles.
Website FacebookWayne Walker
Putting People First
Albany Ward
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Cathy Casey
City Vision
Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward
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On council I am a strong advocate for improving the transport network for vulnerable road users. It is time to link up all the paths so that cyclists have a safe commute and a healthier and sustainable alternative to the car. I was in seventh heaven when the Ian McKinnon Drive separated cycleway opened. Now to link it up with Mt Albert!
I am a strong advocate for reducing vehicle speeds. Lower speeds are critical for bike safety. I support Auckland Transport’s Vision Zero and would like to see their proposed speed limit reductions implemented and expanded to residential roads and town centres.
Mark Graham
City Vision
Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward
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AT needs to be held accountable for its spending priorities and cultural resistance to cycling. The Governing Body sets the objectives for AT – AT’s plans must align with council’s plans and strategic direction, but it’s not happening, despite the assorted reporting and accountability systems in place. This needs to be strengthened in order to have AT follow through on council’s objectives. I want to see budget allocated to cycleways increased, use of tactical urbanism and temporary infrastructure implemented and move to at the very least triple what the current goal is for new cycleways.
FacebookDamian Light
Independent
Howick Ward
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I am a strong advocate for an Eastern bike network (including separated cycle lanes) to provide safe choices. We must put together a long term plan to fund and build this network, connecting it up to the rest of Auckland.
I’m passionate about ensuring that there are cycling options available around our schools. I want to ensure that every school has safe transport options for students by ensuring crossings are safe and providing cycle and walking paths.
Website FacebookPatrick O’Meara
United Locals
Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Ward
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To also accelerate delivery of the Strategic Cycle paths and ensure delivery of Road safety with a special focus around Schools. With improved cycle storage and more racks, around Ferry, and Rail stations as well as bus ways. We need a greater uptake and understanding of e-bikes and scooters as part of an integrated transport network.
Chris Darby
Taking the Shore Forward
North Shore Ward
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Since 2005 I have been the political lead for SkyPath, progressing political support for SkyPath Trust’s advocacy. As a councillor over the last six years I have secured mayoral and councillor support which has led to budget allocations for scoping, the indicative business case and consenting. More recently I have sought government support for taking over the project. This has led to an improved design and confirmation that the project is now confirmed for delivery through NZTA, with funding locked in through the Auckland Transport Alignment Project.
My plan for the next three years is;
- Seek NZTA support for extending SeaPath (SkyPath to Esmonde Rd) northwards to Albany (NorthPath), creating a major bike arterial for the Shore.
- Accelerate delivery of the Strategic Cycle Network and complementary Auckland Paths network.
- Ensure delivery of the Road Safety Programme is maintained, with an early focus around schools.
- Provide improved cycle racks and storage at bus/rail stations and ferry terminals.
- Reallocate on street car parks for bike parking and bike/e-scooter parking.
- Seek improved funding for active transport, that reflects the uptake of e-bikes and micro-mobility.
- Turn Auckland Council’s declaration of a climate emergency into a positive pathway for biking and walking.
- Ensure separated cycle lanes are provided wherever possible and all cycle infrastructure is consistent with the Transport Design Manual.
Richard Hills
A Positive Voice for the Shore
North Shore Ward
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Most of our city is not safe for bikes, especially for kids or those who are learning to ride. But where we have put in new infrastructure people of all ages are using it and in growing numbers.
We need safer streets now. We need urgent investment, we need to connect our neighbourhoods with safe walking and cycling routes so we can get to work, school or just to see friends and enjoy our city outside of a vehicle.
It’s for safety, for enjoyment, for health and to get action on climate change!
Website FacebookGrant Gillon
More For The Shore
North Shore Ward
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Mike Padfield
Better Auckland
Ōrākei Ward
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For me safe and easy access for all bikers to and from our city is vital. My plan is to increase the spend on bike lanes on most main roads to ensure safe access for all bikes.
I also want a full debate on the interaction between bikes and e-scooters and look at ways to separate these modes for the safety of all as well as pedestrians.
FacebookAlan Barraclough
Green Party
Ōrākei Ward
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Myself and the Green Party support a fully separated cycle network completely separate from roading. Cycling safety means safety from trucks and large vehicles physically , but also from strokes and health issues caused by diesel particulates.
Our vision is for a future city, where residents largely travel by public transport, or walk and cycle on both separated cycleways and separated shared paths. The cycling network would be fully connected, end to end across the city, with connections into train stations. Each second station would involve a secure bicycle park and ride facility. These park and rides represent good value for money. The same investment required for 200 vehicles can stretch to 2000 cycles. These models of end to end safe cycleways, and cycle park and rides are already in place or on trial in countries such as the netherlands.
In the next 3 years we must complete the Glen Innes to Tāmaki drive share path with and overpass into Tāmaki Drive. We need to connect that through to the line at Parnell as well as down to Britomart. Completion of the Skypath is essential as that completely enables north and south cycle commuting over the bridge. This network completion across the city will be prioritised in consultation with the cycling community.
You may well ask where this funding will come from. Funding is justified from preventative health budgets, climate action budgets. Most importantly, an increasing percentage of road funding must be diverted into cycleways.
WebsiteGreg Presland
Labour
Waitākere Ward
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(Greg is also standing for Waitākere Ranges Local Board)
We are in the middle of a climate emergency and if we are going to become carbon neutral by 2050 we are going to have to dramatically change the way we travel. Public transport and walking and cycling are going to be major contributors to this.
To add to saving our environment properly functioning cycleways will make our city safer and more pleasant and the users fitter and healthier.
There are a number of benefits and as far as I am concerned no downside for Auckland to improve our cycleways. All it takes is increased budget, a determination to get the projects under way and some political will.
Website FacebookPippa Coom
City Vision
Waitematā and Gulf Ward
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To get there, Auckland needs transport choices, including safe options for walking and cycling for everyday trips, recreation, commuting and getting to school and study. A cycling network across Auckland is now more urgent than ever with the declaration of a climate emergency.
I was a government-appointed member of the Urban Cycling Investment Panel that allocated $100 million New Zealand-wide for urban cycling infrastructure. The Waitematā Local Board, which I serve as chair, was the first to adopt Vision Zero. We’ve just approved funding for a new Greenways route and have another about to go out for consultation. I ride an e-bike everyday for transport. It is convenient, fast and flattens out the hills. I love it.
As a councillor I will support safe speeds, the quick roll out of cycleways, Access for Everyone in the city centre, assertive mode shift and delivery targets, investment in safety around schools and the prioritisation of road space for active transport.
We need brave, effective leadership on council because progress so far has been too slow; I will provide that leadership.
Website FacebookAnne Degia-Pala
Independent
Whau Ward
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As an injury prevention advocate I endorse Bike Auckland’s Call to Action.
However, we need to ensure:
- Safety is paramount for all, including all road users
- Promote reduction in traffic congestion with more people using bikes
- Promote reduction in emissions
- Convince school children the advantage of investment in their wellbeing, i.e. healthy lifestyle (affordable and available)
- Connect further suburbs especially to schools, business and commercial zones like the North West lane.
- Deliver more cycle lanes in the city like the ones on Nelson Street
- Deliver more safe bike parking spaces for bikes to connect with trains and buses
- Deliver more safe bike parking sites at shopping malls
- Create bike days for ‘ a cause’ i.e. injury prevention in association with road safety NixCrew Trust
To achieve the above, collaboration of Council and communities is necessary. Some projects have been shelved since 2016. So, I will support improved budget allocations for infrastructure upgrade already proposed, especially the 30 kph speed limit in town centres for vehicles, wellbeing and healthy attitudes for Aucklanders.
Website Facebook LinkedInJessamine Fraser
Green Party
Whau Ward
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(Jessamine is also standing for Whau Local Board)
Large areas of Auckland are still not accessible by safe cycling routes, reducing choice for many people, especially women, children, and older people, who do not feel safe cycling on Auckland’s roads. The Whau area is one of these areas. We need to connect the train stations and Te Whau River Path with the key cycle routes eg along the northwestern, but also create networks of safe cycling routes within the area for short trips to local shops, parks, and schools.
WebsiteRoss Clow
Labour
Whau Ward
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I also promise to continue my advocacy via AT to NZTA to widen the funding criteria for NZTA co-funding. That is, co-funding of suburban cycleways and – equally as important, – co-funding of shared pathways as new Active Transport criteria.
In my Whau ward ensure the Avondale to New Lynn cycleway is completed by 2020, thereby completing the Waterview to New Lynn link.
Also to continue the extension (and advocacy) of Te Whau Coastal Pathway from Te Atatū to New Lynn, thereby linking up with the New Lynn to Waterview cycleway. This is a community led project initiated by the Portage Trust and already over 3 km of the 15 km is open (Google to update).
Linda Cassells
City Vision
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Maungawhau Subdivision)
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Yeshe Dawa
City Vision
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Maungawhau Subdivision)
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In order to support the growing number of cyclists, we need better infrastructure. More protected and purpose-built cycle paths (not just giving us the gutter) that provide better connections between Albert-Eden and the Auckland Cycle network. ie a link between Greenlane and St Lukes. Traffic calming measures, especially around schools, town centres and residential areas, for reduced, safer speeds which in turn supports cycling being a safe, viable option for the young and old alike. Heaps more bike parking! And more wayfinding signage to guide our cycle journeys. I’d love to see Albert-Eden be safe and easy for cyclists to move around and through as we move towards a more multi-modal and active transport society.
WebsiteBernadette Power
City Vision
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Maungawhau Subdivision)
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Separated cycling infrastructure will help everyone who uses this corridor:
- cyclists who currently use the corridor – brave and experienced cyclists only – will have a much safer ride
- people who would like to cycle, but who find the current conditions too daunting, will in future be able to use the cycleway and may switch from car to bicycle
- buses will find it easier to run to timetable
- those who must drive will experience less traffic and parking will be eased, as there will be fewer cars which need parking.
This is before we even start to speak of carbon emissions and public health advantages.
My plan of action is to support this project through to implementation. I will also continue to have conversations with Aucklanders who are hostile to cycleways and to cyclists to show how it is in everyone’s interest to have proper cycleways built.
Margi Watson
City Vision
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)
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It has been great to push for more biking success on the Local Board including $10k towards the trishaw for Selwyn Village, the bike hub for Gribblehirst, the bike track for kids at Potters and funding groups to do what they do best. More infrastructure is crucial and I commit to help funding it through the Local Board Transport Capital Fund and pushing AT to fund more though its regional budgets.
We need to change the way we think, finish the Pt Chev-Westmere connection and deliver the Chamberlain Park connection. We need to reallocate road corridor space to accommodate bikes and micromobility. Our city needs to make the changes that will move us all – in safer, healthier ways.
Jose Luis Fowler
C&R Communities and Residents
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)
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Julia Maskill
Green supported candidate for City Vision
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)
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Victoria Tupou
Independent
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)
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Christina Robertson
City Vision
Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)
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John Wood
Future Focus
Devonport-Takapuna Local Board
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Reducing speed limits on many streets is also important.
Other improvement in outcomes for cyclists will only come by spending more. More money needs to be invested in cycle ways and improving the safety of cycle lanes encouraging more to cycle and others to cycle more often.
NZTA needs to push ahead with building Skypath and Seapath to encourage cycling as a visitor and recreational activity; and for those who will use this for their daily commute.
Consideration should be given to encourage cycling as a general leisure activity, looking for opportunities such as the Minhocão in Sao Paulo where a piece of street has been turned over to cyclists, scooter riders and pedestrians every Sunday.
Cycling should be recognised and encouraged as an effective means of reducing carbon emissions; that many will think of as their first option particularly for short, local trips.
Paul Cornish
Keep Our Open Spaces
Devonport-Takapuna Local Board
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Brooke Loader
Labour
Henderson-Massey Local Board
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A special project I would like to see happen is that I’d really love to see the Council acquire a pop-up pump track that rotates around all of the different public parks within the area to encourage our young people to get out and give it a go!
Glen Stanton
Independent
Hibiscus and Bays Local Board
(East Coast Bays Subdivision)
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I am passionate about improving the network of cycle lanes. This means creating new ones and also upgrading the existing ones. In my opinion the route that needs the most urgent attention is the shared cycle/walkway from the city to St Heliers. This heavily used but completely inadequate for purpose. Needs widening and better lights installed overhead. Also think that all cycle lanes need better signage and painted green for easy identification.
Janet Fitzgerald
Positively Penlink
Hibiscus and Bays Local Board
(Hibiscus Coast Subdivision)
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John Davies
Positively Penlink
Hibiscus and Bays Local Board
(Hibiscus Coast Subdivision)
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Lance Millward
Labour
Howick Local Board
(Botany Subdivision)
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There are three major open spaces in Botany Subdivision including Murphy’s Bush and Barry Curtis Park. But the only real cycle infrastructure is a loop around Barry Curtis Park. No real investment in cycling for commuting to work. The shared paths are not prepared for the bikes that are becoming more prevalent. We must do better.
My background is in public space design and as a landscape architect I’m certain I can pick off some projects and make a real difference. I will do better.
WebsiteKhalyd Baloch
Independent
Howick Ward
(Pakuranga Subdivision)
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My affairs with bikes are since from my childhood. I have grown up in a society where classes matters, and I am grown up with bikes: from school to college that was the only transport I could afford and prefer to use. When I moved to New Zealand, in my initial days I was riding a bike to my Institute on a regular basis and am still cycling for fun.
Since the last 18 odd years in New Zealand, I have seen the cycling trend has been increased due to different reasons. A few ride bikes for fun, some keeping themselves to be fit and healthy and most to avoid traffic congestions and parking cost, etc.
Unfortunately, infrastructure for cycling does not exist in Howick constituency, if so then very poor and unplanned. I have very strong plans and ideas for cycling lanes, I am the strong advocate that bike tracks are needed with all major roads, especially along with Pakuranga Road, Bucklands Beach Road, Aviemore Drive, Ti Rakau drive and so forth.
I will surely be sit-down with the team of experts to spend a good portion of the board’s transportation fund to promote more bike projects, that would massively impact on our environment, transportation, and climate change challenges.
Website Facebook InstagramDale Smith
Independent
Howick Local Board
(Pakuranga Subdivision)
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Long term, this is something we can potentially look at after our AMETI has been completed, in terms of adding cycleways to our main arterial routes to help promote cycle use. Finally, I would like to see a few more public facilities made available in the area, as we really don’t have enough toilets should nature call!
Anne-Elise Smithson
Shore Action
Kaipātiki Local Board
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I will continue to champion better cycling connections as part of new developments in Northcote and Birkenhead. I would love to see a shared path for Onewa Road, particularly beneficial for students going to and from school, and I would love to see a cycling loop further afield in Glenfield. While we’re at it, let’s have more bike racks at our community hubs and community houses, and at all ferry terminals. I have supported new bike repair stations – let’s have more!
I will continue to champion Safe School Streets because we know that tackling real and perceived lack of safety on the school journey is key to unlocking more kids on bikes, as well as getting on top of our congestion woes. I often don’t feel safe on my bike, and I know others feel the same. Let’s help make our streets safer. We have already allocated budget to traffic calming measures, and we can always do better.
Congestion is a top issue for our constituents and we know that more people walking and cycling is not only good for our health and the environment, it also means fewer cars on the road and less congestion.
WebsiteJesse Jensen
Independent
Kaipātiki Local Board
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I would be a vexatious complainer to AT for more cycling paths and more infrastructure in Kaipatiki for cyclists.
I think adding bike racks to all buses immediately would be my first order of business for cyclists.
FacebookLemauga Lydia Sosene
Labour
Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board
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It is a healthier choice to walk or to use your bike if you have one and to enjoy the local surroundings. It is great for seniors, people who use mobility scooters or walkers, for mums and dads pushing prams or children’s bikes, and for young people and those who like to remain physically fit.
I am keen Auckland Transport and Auckland Council (with support and guidance of Bike Auckland) promote and host local activation events on a regular basis, to help people of Māngere enjoy, participate in using the new pathways, pedestrian crossings and cycle lanes for their daily activities: going to school, local shops and local parks.
We are lucky in our community, Mr T of Māngere Bikefit is also a community leader keen to promote healthier trips of walking and cycling to get to and from your home, out and about in Māngere. Mr T also is a strong promoter to keep people safe if walking and cycling in the local community.
Frances Smiler-Edwards
Labour
Manurewa Local Board
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These days I have an injury to my knees and I am unable to ride, hence I swim.
We need to provide good safe cycling lanes for the many who cycle currently and for those that would cycle if it were safe to do so. This will also cut down on the congestion of the motorways. It helps in all areas less fumes and a much healthier environment. The health gains will also improve and have less stress on the health system saving monies which in turn will support ‘safe cycle ways’.
Duncan White
Independent
Manurewa Local Board
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Focus should first be on hot spots such as Great South Road, Takanini.
Wellington City allows cycling on their motorways, and with suitable protection there may be areas that will make cycling more suitable to those area rather than the Great South Road.
Ezekiel Robson
Labour
Manurewa Local Board
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(Ezekiel is also standing for Counties Manukau DHB)
I absolutely acknowledge the importance of the concerns of cyclists. My personal experience as a disabled person, and disability advocacy and community leadership work, tells me there’s a lot of similarity and overlap of issues for these groups of citizens. E.g. I gathered support to stop my Local Board from closing Te Mahia train station; used by kids cycling to school and older people with mobility access needs. It’s now getting a $2-million upgrade by Auckland Transport.
I am particularly concerned about the under representation of disabled people like myself, in leadership roles. This leads to our human rights and needs being ignored and neglected by decision-makers.
I’m standing for my Local Board as Manurewa deserves elected leaders who better reflect the communities they represent. The Local Board lacks a certain diversity of thought and experience. Local infrastructure is suffering from over nine years of neglect.
Improving public transport across Manurewa and addressing a range of social issues that stop people from having dignity is crucial. A priority for me is continuing to promote ‘active transport’, particularly safe cycling infrastructure and pedestrian footpath safety and quality as this is of high importance to disabled people, and others.
I hope to be in a position of influence to work with Auckland Transport to champion the best transport connections to the places people want to shop, work, and study. I support a recent local community proposal to build a bridge for safe walking and cycling between Wattle Downs and Waiata Shores.
The Local Board Transport Capital Fund should be better used to ensure cyclists feel included in our community and welcome on our public transport network. E.g. the Manurewa Local Board created a covered walkway to the Manurewa train station, but only covered the stairs, not the ramp! Wheelchair users, cyclists, people with prams, suitcases or crutches will get wet, but people able to mobilise on two legs down the stairs can stay dry! The Local Board ignored Auckland Transport’s advice on this.
I support the concept of tactical urbanism to ‘nudge’ people into looking at issues or trying things in different ways, in order to socialise new ideas with the general public. Changes can be effective, even if they don’t require a large cost / investment.
I am standing for the CMDHB to ensure patient and whanau experiences are taken into account and made a priority in all health care planning and policy-making. Disabled people should always be treated with respect and have an opportunity to input into decisions, policies and services that affect us.
I am currently involved in Healthy Auckland Together, an interagency public health campaign to improve the built environment and promote increased physical activity, particularly for children.
My values and upbringing in Manurewa is what drives me to serve my local community. I would bring fresh energy, a collaborative approach, governance board experience, strategic thinking and analysis skills, a passion for community advocacy, and broad networks to these local government roles.
Facebook FacebookPeter McGlashan
Labour
Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board (Tāmaki Subdivision)
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Isaac Mercer
Independent
Ōrākei Local Board
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Ōrākei needs a greater focus on cycling infrastructure. Since December 2016 only 300m of cycleway has been built in our ward, that has to be increased and as a local board member I would ensure the local board advocates to Auckland Transport for better provision of cycling infrastructure in our area and does not block cycling projects.
Ōrākei has one of the most popular routes for cyclists, Tamaki Drive, but it is also one of the most dangerous. Whilst there is a long-term masterplan for Tamaki Drive we haven’t seen it eventuate in any form yet. Tamaki Drive should be the best and therefore safest cycleway in Auckland and I will support and advocate for ways to do that.
We also need to look the small-scale and aim to improve the everyday road environment for cyclists. That means ensuring any road safety improvements incorporate the concerns of cyclists, reducing hazards (such as vehicles parked in or accessing the cycleway dangerously and illegally) and utilising tactical urbanism to create safer spaces for pedestrians and cyclists alike.
I am committed to improving the safety of cyclists in Ōrākei and Auckland-wide, this is further backed up by my A- score on the Generation Zero scorecards. I want to see change, and I do not want cars to rule such a lovely environment where all should be able to enjoy.
WebsitePete Williams
Independent
Ōrākei Local Board
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Bobby Shen
Roskill Community Voice
Puketāpapa Local Board
Read statement
Aucklanders use a range of transport methods to get around. I choose to cycle to work to avoid the traffic, park easily and get that energising boost of exercise. However, our neighbourhoods and linkages have a long way to go to ensure that we and our children are able to cycle around safely.
As well as furthering the work the Puketāpapa Local Board have been doing with the Puketāpapa Greenways Plan and the Healthy Puketāpapa Action Plan, I plan to advocate for active modes of transport in schemes for Dominion Road.
Website FacebookJon Turner
Roskill Community Voice
Puketāpapa Local Board
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However, our area is lacking in signage along the Southwestern path and I would advocate for installing signs in the same style as the Waterview/Northwestern path. I would also like to see an extension of cycle lanes along Mt Albert Road and provision of a cycle box at the Mt Roskill Shops intersection, as well as ensuring town centres have adequate bike parking.
Investing in cycling is a no-brainer; it reduces congestion, lowers emissions and makes people happier and healthier. Vote for Roskill Community Voice to ensure Puketāpapa continues to support active transport.
Julie Fairey
Roskill Community Voice
Puketāpapa Local Board
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In the next three years I’d like to see a Footpath Strategy that recognises the importance of properly building and resourcing the “little road” between the footpath and the car lanes, for cyclists and other modes which aren’t safe in with the cars and might make things unsafe for those on the footpath. I want to continue to invest locally in infrastructure, but also look at initiatives to support local community groups getting people into cycling, increasing opportunities for children to ride to school, and get a local signage network plan so people know how to get around when they aren’t in a car.
Website FacebookSteven Garner
Independent
Rodney Local Board
(Warkworth Subdivision)
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Anna Atkinson
Living Upper Harbour
Upper Harbour Local Board
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It’s essential that we build more safe cycleways over the next three years.
- 40% of Auckland’s’ CO2 is from Transport
- Cycling is fun, fit, fast and cheap
- If we build the cycleways people use them.
- There is huge ‘pent up’ demand from cyclists for safe ways of getting around, we need to provide the infrastructure to make this happen.
I acknowledge that cycling is not just a local board issue, we have to work with AT and NZTA, but if elected here is what I would do.
- Work with NZTA and AT to connect the gaps in the new Shared Path that NZTA is building in Albany. This looks great on paper but it doesn’t connect safely to local communities. There is a massive gap around Bush Road where the new shared path almost but not quite, connects with the shared path on Albany Highway. Fill that gap. The new path doesn’t connect well into many local communities
- Use our discretionary fund to pay for connections
- Add protection to cyclelanes that are just ‘paint on the road’.
- West Harbour Marina doesn’t even have bike racks. Really?
- Investigate if bike storage solutions for Hobsonville Point are needed
Nicholas Mayne
Living Upper Harbour
Upper Harbour Local Board
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Because of Nicholas, the Local Board completed a review of its Greenways Plan; which identifies potential projects to connect cycling and walking options. “One project I want to pursue in the next term is the shared path between Unsworth Heights and Albany Senior High School on Albany Highway. We can do this by using Local Board Capital Expenditure to connect paths in Rosedale Reserve, AT Local Board Discretionary funds to build a shared path down Bush Road, renewals funding to build a shared path through Fernhill Escarpment off Bush Road, and working with the developer of the old Massey University Campus to connect this to Albany Highway.”
With the help of Living Upper Harbour candidate, Anna Atkinson, Nicholas hopes to support Healthy Active Communities, Growing Green Space, and Greater Transport Choices, by making Smart Equitable Decisions.
Jonathan McDonald
Independent
Upper Harbour Local Board
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Greg Presland
Future West
Waitākere Ranges Local Board
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(Greg is also standing for Council – Waitākere Ward)
We are in the middle of a climate emergency and if we are going to become carbon neutral by 2050 we are going to have to dramatically change the way we travel. Public transport and walking and cycling are going to be major contributors to this.
To add to saving our environment properly functioning cycleways will make our city safer and more pleasant and the users fitter and healthier.
There are a number of benefits and as far as I am concerned no downside for Auckland to improve our cycleways. All it takes is increased budget, a determination to get the projects under way and some political will.
Website FacebookKerrin Leoni
City Vision
Waitematā Local Board
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I am standing with City Vision – the only team with Bike Friendly policies. If I’m elected to the Waitematā Local Board I will continue the work to extend the cycling network, build Greenways, slow speeds and make our streets safer and healthier for everyone to enjoy.
As a mum of 2 year old twins I would like them to have the opportunity growing up to cycle to school and for fun.
I am also standing with City Vision Health for the Auckland DHB. An Auckland where more people are able to walk and cycle safely is a healthier city.
Website WebsiteRichard Northey
City Vision
Waitematā Local Board
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Alexandra Bonham
City Vision
Waitematā Local Board
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Julie Sandilands
City Vision
Waitematā Local Board
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In the next three years Auckland needs to significantly increase our number of cycle lanes (fully separated wherever possible), and get people out using them (through promotion, advocacy, and increasing the number and size of events such as bike clinics and bike to work events). Website Facebook
Glenda Fryer
City Vision
Waitematā Local Board
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As part of a City Vision team, I will actively support and fund measures to increase the number of people walking, and cycling for recreation, short trips and commuting. An efficient, reliable and inexpensive public transport system (rail, bus, light rail and ferry) is the key to solving congestion coupled with cycle-ways and safe walking routes including over the Harbour Bridge.
I support the vision of the ‘City Centre refresh’ for a green-way from the Auckland Domain through to Wynyard Point Park. Obviously CRL is the key, but we must quickly enable the pedestrianisation of Queen Street and opening up of the waterfront from Point Erin to Teal Park.
Community well-being is important and that includes community centres, libraries, arts, Parks for sports and recreation, clean amenities like toilets, cycling and walking.
Graeme Gunthorp
City Vision
Waitematā Local Board
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While high quality lanes are required in the long term, we need to get the green paint out in the short term. Key linkages like Fanshawe Street, Park Road, Ponsonby Road, Halsey Street and Victoria Street have the space for cycle lanes, and now they need the political power to make it happen.
I’ve been travelling daily by bike since 2008 and know the huge benefits that cycling can bring.
I am committed to providing a step change in the way that existing roads are laid out, and am excited about the future of cycling in Auckland.
FacebookAdriana Christie
City Vision
Waitematā Local Board
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I like to mix up my transport options. I have trusty 3-speed bike called Simon but since I adopted a puppy I’ve been walking more. Everyone should have the option of getting around safely without a car. There’s a climate emergency! Bikes have to be part of the future and I want to be re-elected so I can continue to be a champion for funding and investment by the local board.
Website FacebookJessica Rose
Green Party
Whau Local Board
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Hot on the heels of the success of the Waterview Path, and the beautiful Te Auaunga, I’m keen to get the section of shared path from Avondale – New Lynn underway asap. The more connected our off road networks are, the more it makes sense for people to use them. I’m particularly proud of the connections to trains and busses that this particular section will provide.
Following this, I will advocate for safer school connections, and routes to parks and shops. I believe road renewals need to be assessed for safety improvements, as well as questioning if the infrastructure is still the right fit for all ages and all access. So I’ll be challenging how funding for improvements is allocated for a more equitable outcome across all modes. Our streets are for moving people and things, and healthy streets, produce healthy people.
I’ll also be supporting SkyPath, Vision Zero, and other networks across the city, so people can get safely and conveniently from here to there in the way that suits them. Finally, I’d love to see a bit more colour and art in underpasses and directional wayfinding along route, so will be bringing this to the table if elected.
WebsiteReuben Shadbolt
Independent
Whau Local Board
Lawrence Watt
Green Party
Whau Local Board
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I want to see the bike paths linked between New Lynn and Avondale first. Next up I want it to be possible to bike into Pt Chev, connecting with the bike path alongside the motorway. I also want a path built on the lower path of Titirangi Rd and the Godley Rd path extended. This is just the start.
Where possible I favour paths the are totally separate from the road.
AT’s current rate of 10 km competed a year is nowhere near enough. We also need to expand recreational cycling pathways like the combined walking cycle track by the Whau river.
WebsiteJessamine Fraser
Green Party
Whau Local Board
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(Jessamine is also standing for Council – Whau Ward)
Large areas of Auckland are still not accessible by safe cycling routes, reducing choice for many people, especially women, children, and older people, who do not feel safe cycling on Auckland’s roads. The Whau area is one of these areas. We need to connect the train stations and Te Whau River Path with the key cycle routes eg along the northwestern, but also create networks of safe cycling routes within the area for short trips to local shops, parks, and schools.
WebsiteScorecards
The other way to decide who will earn your vote is to look at the scorecards assembled by various groups. A vast amount of work and local knowledge goes into these, so take the time to check them out.
The Spinoff has a very comprehensive round up of mayoral, councillor, local board and DHB candidates on the new Policy Local platform. You can search via your address, sort by policy area and even see policy statements without names and it’ll suggest candidates most closely aligned with your preferences.
See The Spinoff’s Policy Local
Generation Zero has again produced scorecards for mayoral, councillor and local board candidates. You can search via your address, and see easy-to-digest scores for all the candidates and a breakdown under the subheadings transport, urban form and environment.
See Generation Zero’s scorecards
Actionstation have a profile of young (under 40 years old), climate-friendly candidates.
See Actionstation’s profiles
Bike Burbs surveys and scorecards
Our Bike Burbs are the people-on-the-ground across Auckland. Some of the groups have also put together a round up of their local candidates.
Voting in Henderson-Massey? Check out Bike Te Atatu/Bike Henderson/Bike Massey’s scoreboard of local board candidates.
Voting in Waiheke? Cycle Action Waiheke have a post in their Facebook group with responses from Local Board candidates.
Voting in the Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward? Bike Pt Chev wrote to the candidates for council. Here are their responses.
Voting in Kaipātiki? Bike Kaipātiki have once again put together a thorough round-up of their council and local board candidates. Here’s the low-down.
Voting in Ōrākei? Bike Tāmaki Drive have surveyed candidates for their ward and local board. Find it here.
Voting in Maungakiekie-Tāmaki? Bike Onehunga asked questions of their local board candidates. Here are the responses.
Not seeing your local candidates on our page?
Find their email address here [PDF, 1mb]
and send them the link to this page. Ask if they’ll endorse Bike Auckland’s call to action to earn your vote – and be sure to tell them how important it is to you as a voter, and your friends and family.
Find out more about who’s standing, and how and where to vote, at Vote Auckland.