Want a city that’s a joy to get around?

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.

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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
We need a transport budget that matches the beautiful words.

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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.

slower-speeds

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

A note to voters: We emailed every mayoral, councillor and local board candidate we could via this list, inviting them to respond in their own words to our call to action. We look forward to holding them to their promises if elected. If you don’t see a candidate on this page that you think should be here, scroll down for how to contact them.

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?

Mayoral Candidates

Phil Goff

Independent

Read statement
We have seen incredible growth in the number of people on bikes around the city in the past 3 years. Where we have built infrastructure that lets people ride safely, Aucklanders flock to it. In the past 12 months there has been 7.3% increase in people riding bikes.

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.

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Annalucia Vermunt

Communist League

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Fight for a government-financed public works programme to put unemployed and under-employed workers to work at union-scale wages building and repairing railways, roads, bridges, hospitals, childcare centres, public transport, foot paths, cycle ways and other infrastructure that working people need. Set the minimum wage to enable all workers to afford a home and support a family.

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Brendan Maddern

Independent

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Bikes are an important part of Auckland’s transport mix. My flagship proposal is to use our plastic waste mountain to rebuild our roads. As part of that rebuild I would like to separate the bike lanes from cars. Placing the curb or on-street parking between vulnerable cyclists and fast moving vehicles. No new road would be built without consideration to a bike line being built along with it. So that even on suburban streets there is a safe lane for cyclists. By making the lanes ubiquitous, safe and easily accessible I believe that more people will see cycling as a viable alternative to cars.

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Genevieve Forde

Independent

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Safe, uninterrupted bike lanes all over Auckland ASAP! Plus green inner cities and shopping centres where cars are banned with plenty of secure bike parking places.

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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Safety. Firstly, to create a greater awareness with drivers to look out for cyclists. Secondly, to ensure that cyclists drive single file instead of abreast. Lastly, to widen roads where needed so that drivers can pass cyclists. Also supporting all initiatives by Bike Auckland.

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Glen Snelgar

Old Skool

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My name is Glen Snelgar, and I am Old Skool.

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.

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Council Candidates

Wayne Walker

Putting People First

Albany Ward

Read statement
Have been a steadfast champion on Council for improved cycling facilities across Auckland – including separated bike paths, shared walkway/cycleways, bike storage on trains, buses and ferries (following overseas models), funding increases for cycling, facilities for electric bikes, bike education in schools, travel planning for schools that incorporates cycling. This includes support for specific projects. In particular I have advocated for projects that are cost effective and have community support. I am a regular user and supporter of the council’s small e-bike fleet as a means to get to meetings around central Auckland.

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Cathy Casey

City Vision

Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward

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I was the first councillor on a bike! I bought my e-bike in 2014 e-bike and commuted from Mt Albert to the city centre daily until last year. Separating bikes for cars is vital and I speak from experience of cycling all around my ward and the city centre. I have come off twice because of cars. The only safe cycle ride is the protection of separation. Build them and they will come. I saw an AT report recently saying that few people cycle down Dominion Road. No wonder! That has to be the most dangerous commute in my ward, confronted with cars and buses. A protected cycleway there should be a priority.

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.

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Mark Graham

City Vision

Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward

Read statement
Climate change, congestion, air pollution, health issues and urban/suburban design are all ameliorated or enhanced by bicycling. there’s no question cycling is good for the city and every person living here.

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.

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Damian Light

Independent

Howick Ward

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I want to live in an Auckland where we have a wide range of transport options, including public transport and active modes. I am a strong advocate for increased investment in cycling and walking as I’ve travelled to cities like Copenhagen and seen the incredible difference it can make to a city, even for those who don’t cycle. We’ve seen massive growth in this area across the city – projects like Lightpath Te Ara I Whiti have proven that if we build it, they will come (on bikes). We need to move faster to connect up the network, using tactical urbanism to quickly deliver safe, separated routes across the city.

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.

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Patrick O’Meara

United Locals

Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Ward

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I will promise just not to be a champion for cycling, but also e-bikes and scooters because the future is NOW and we need to adapt and future proof our City. We need to prioritise safety first, especially around schools and getting our children on bikes, not cars. To complete the Tāmaki Pathway with Community input and outcomes, including the Gowing Drive connection.

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.

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Josephine Bartley

Labour Party

Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Ward

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I’m the current councillor and I support better options for everyone to get around Auckland; walkers, cyclists, drivers, PT users, members of our disability community.

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Chris Darby

Taking the Shore Forward

North Shore Ward

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I am not only ready to be a champion for Aucklanders on bikes but a long-time champion of safe cycling for Auckland.

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;

  1. Seek NZTA support for extending SeaPath (SkyPath to Esmonde Rd) northwards to Albany (NorthPath), creating a major bike arterial for the Shore.
  2.  Accelerate delivery of the Strategic Cycle Network and complementary Auckland Paths network.
  3. Ensure delivery of the Road Safety Programme is maintained, with an early focus around schools.
  4. Provide improved cycle racks and storage at bus/rail stations and ferry terminals.
  5. Reallocate on street car parks for bike parking and bike/e-scooter parking.
  6. Seek improved funding for active transport, that reflects the uptake of e-bikes and micro-mobility.
  7. Turn Auckland Council’s declaration of a climate emergency into a positive pathway for biking and walking.
  8. Ensure separated cycle lanes are provided wherever possible and all cycle infrastructure is consistent with the Transport Design Manual.
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Richard Hills

A Positive Voice for the Shore

North Shore Ward

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I’m a champion for Aucklanders on bikes. We have finally secured the budget for Skypath and Seapath which will continue to transform our city.

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!

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Grant Gillon

More For The Shore

North Shore Ward

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Cycling is a major part of the active Auckland strategy as well as our Zero Carbon strategy. We have a very clear plan of increasing cycling and shared paths in both the commute and greenway pathways. I support cycling and walking across the harbour as well as the planned Seapath. We need a Glenfield, Beachahven, Birkenhead circuit as well as a safe cycleway down Glenfield Rd from the corner of Wairau Rd, down Wairau Rd to join with Taharoto Rd cycleway. A further vision of mine is to complete a safe west of Lake Rd cycleway from Bayswater across a new Francis St bridge to Esmonde Rd and eventually joining Seapath and the Akoranga bus station.

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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.

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Alan Barraclough

Green Party

Ōrākei Ward

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Supporting cycling and safe cycling is imperative for health and wellbeing and ensuring we have an interesting city, with safe recreational activities on offer. It is also absolutely integral to the fight against climate change to support safe cycling. When our commuters and schoolchildren alike can use bicycles for getting to work and school, that takes a large number of fossil fuel vehicles off the road.

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.

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Greg 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.

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Pippa Coom

City Vision

Waitematā and Gulf Ward

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I am a champion for a safe, healthy, connected, resilient, sustainable, accessible, vibrant and inclusive city for everyone.

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.

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Anne 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.

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Jessamine 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.

Website

Ross Clow

Labour

Whau Ward

Read statement
I promise to continue my 100% record of support for cycleways and shared paths throughout Auckland.

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).

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Local Board Candidates

Linda Cassells

City Vision

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Maungawhau Subdivision)

Read statement
I fully support initiatives that encourage more Aucklanders of all ages to cycle around this city. I will advocate for connecting more of Albert-Eden to the existing cycle networks. We need to further invest in the cycling infrastructure to connect the gaps in the existing cycling network – in Albert-Eden that specifically applies to connecting Greenlane with other cycleways via St Lukes. I would work with Auckland Transport to meet all these cycle network needs. I will promote the benefits of cycling as a zero-emissions means of transport and as a safe and efficient way of commuting to places of work and study, but also as a way for people of all ages to enjoy this beautiful city. I will advocate for children to be able to cycle safely to school. I will also promote the health and environmental benefits of cycling, and of active transport generally. I will focus on encouraging more people to use cycling as a means of transport, especially those who would like to, but do not feel safe in our current limited network. I would also advocate for safe, dry places to park bikes near transport hubs, providing greater flexibility in moving around our city.

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Yeshe Dawa

City Vision

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Maungawhau Subdivision)

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As a passionate cyclist and environmentalist, I want to see cycling continue to flourish in Auckland as a primary means of transport. The North-Western takes both my partner and me to work and my stepson to school on our bikes. I enjoy cycling because it’s great for the planet and great for our health. The investment we put into our protected cycle paths is an investment in our communities and their hauora (holistic wellbeing).

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.

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Bernadette Power

City Vision

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Maungawhau Subdivision)

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I am ready to be a champion for Aucklanders on bikes who need representatives to continue to press for proper separated cycling infrastructure on our roads. This is also in the interests of non-cyclists. In particular, I support the building of a separated cycleway between St Luke’s and Greenlane. This is a planned project for Auckland Transport.

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.

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Margi Watson

City Vision

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)

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I am totally committed to be a bike champion to make it safe and easy for all who choose to get out on their bikes, whether to work or play, especially for women and kids. We fought as a broad community to win the Waterview Shared Path and now it is used by more than 1,000 people a day. It’s transforming the way we move and I love that it is direct, safe and enjoyable. I was stoked to be able to cut the ribbon and open it!

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.

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Jose Luis Fowler

C&R Communities and Residents

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)

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I am a Cycling New Zealand Accredited Cycling Coach. I have been coaching cycling and triathlon in Auckland for over 9 years. I am currently the head cycling coach at Diocesan School for Girls and have a cycling team of 19 riders, the third biggest girls cycling team in New Zealand. I am passionate about getting children and their parents cycling. Recently cycling in Auckland has become more and more dangerous and my daughter was knocked off her bike recently by a motorist who fortunately was successfully prosecuted. My plan is to create quality, well thought out cycling routes for cyclists, so that we can all enjoy cycling in Auckland safely, often cycle paths are not used due to poor maintenance and up-keep, or just badly thought through. I believe I am uniquely positioned to champion Aucklanders on bikes.

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Julia Maskill

Green supported candidate for City Vision

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)

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I am ready to be a champion for Aucklanders on bikes because biking is good for the planet and good for physical and mental health. If I am elected, my plan of action as a newly elected local board member is to prioritise advocating for new cycleways to promote extra biking for all the people (including me) for whom cycle lanes feel unsafe. I understand that developing cycle paths is ambitious and will take time and sustained effort to get community support, to identify a specific route and then complete detailed planning, before budget is committed. I am totally up for the hard work involved in all of that. I used to commute by bike but reluctantly stopped after I was knocked off. On an related matter I am also ready to be a champion for public transport, which will benefit biking by taking vehicles off the roads and make cycle lanes safer. I also want to investigate more ways of carrying bikes on public transport (the front of buses again?) especially on routes that will integrate cycle ways and the public transport system.

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Victoria Tupou

Independent

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)

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I’m ready to be a champion for Aucklanders on bikes because I walk the talk – my family is car-free; we walk, bike, use public transport and the occasional ride share or carpool. If elected I will advocate strongly for separated cycleways on arterial routes, creating a proper cycleway network. I will prioritise funding for cycleway links to local schools, enabling our kids to get to and from school safely. I will advocate for action on Vision Zero, we urgently need safer speeds in our neighbourhoods. Mode shift isn’t coming, it’s here now – I believe we need to be doing more, and doing it now.

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Christina Robertson

City Vision

Albert-Eden Local Board
(Owairaka Subdivision)

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I’ve been riding my bike as my main means of transport for about a decade now, and I want all Aucklanders to have the chance to enjoy a fun, cheap, healthy way of getting around that is also good for our city and our climate. Albert-Eden is fortunate to have the Northwestern Cycleway, but many parts of the local board area are separated from it by hostile roads, and the cycleway has its own growing pains. I will push for Auckland Transport to progress the plans to separate pedestrians and cyclists at the Kingsland bottleneck as fast as possible. I will also support the board’s plans for a cycle route connecting St Lukes Rd and Greenlane. Finally, lower speeds are key for bike safety. I will push for AT’s proposed speed limit reductions to be implemented, and for the programme to be expanded outside the central city, in residential streets and around schools. I will also support the board’s existing traffic-calming programme – slower streets are safe streets, enabling kids to ride to school, adults to ride to the shops, and everyone to ride through their neighbourhoods to reach major routes such as the Northwestern.

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John Wood

Future Focus

Devonport-Takapuna Local Board

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The best way to make most streets safer for cyclists is by substantially reducing the number of cars; where Auckland achieves a mode share that more resembles some European cities. This can be achieved by increasing the number of people using public transport all day/every day, utilising amongst other things a mix of cheaper fares and more regular services.

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.

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Paul Cornish

Keep Our Open Spaces

Devonport-Takapuna Local Board

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I have been a committed cyclist for a couple of decades commuting between Devonport & Green Lane for 6 years alongside participation in 3 Lake Taupo rides and numerous bike events. Bikes are the way of the future and I’m delighted by the recent growth of the bike network in Auckland. A key pledge in my local board campaign is to support the completion of greenways in the Devonport-Takapuna area. As well as offering a recreational opportunity these will create connections to the harbour bridge including a bridge from Francis St to Esmonde Rd which will help alleviate the legendary Lake Rd traffic. As a novice candidate it’s early days but you can rely on me as a dedicated campaigner for bikes alongside other micro-mobility solutions.

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Brooke Loader

Labour

Henderson-Massey Local Board

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Henderson-Massey should be a bike-friendly local board area. My plan for action is based around making Henderson-Massey a safe place to ride your bike and to encourage people, young and old, to cycle more. This includes creating streets that are safe to ride on, increase the network of bike-friendly cycleways and greenways through parks, connecting up our town centres, and supporting our local bike hubs so people can learn how to ride, upskill, and fix their bikes. Most importantly I am connected with Bike Auckland and Bike Te Atatu in particular, and will liaise with these groups that are the ears to the ground, to listen to the biking community’s needs.

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!

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Glen Stanton

Independent

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board
(East Coast Bays Subdivision)

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I am a keen cyclists and belong to two cycling groups who ride recreationally. One group on Saturday mornings around the North Shore followed by coffee. The other meet in the city on Thursday evenings after work and we mostly ride along the waterfront and back with a beer after. I also use my ‘e’ bike most days to ride from my house to the tennis club or the local cafe.

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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Bikes should not be the only mode of active transport for our community but I believe we must make safety as a first priority. Cycle lanes need to be wide enough and continuous for people to get around. Preferably separated from traffic. Shared paths need to be wide enough good lighting and pleasant to ride on. Learning to ride a bike as is the practice at the moment by AT should be encouraged to take place in all schools so children are learning at a young age the skills and safety aspects of riding a bike. For those less fortunate and unable to afford a bike there could be a scheme set up where people could, repair bikes that people have donated that they no longer need and be offered to people.

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John Davies

Positively Penlink

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board
(Hibiscus Coast Subdivision)

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I’m not literally a champion for Aucklanders on Bikes; rather I am a champion of choice and safety. Whether you want to walk, scoot, unicycle, bicycle, tricycle, motorbike or drive a car on your next trip, I want you to have a safe choice. In my area I fully support the idea of a walkway along the Weiti River to the eventual Penlink and an ongoing connection through to the Silverdale Bus Station. This creates an almost flat access way from the Whangaparaoa Peninsula to our major public transport facility in Silverdale South. That’s something I can champion! Beyond this, let’s facilitate that same choice from Orewa’s Western Reserve. The Te Ara Tahuna Estuary shared path is a wonderful guide to what is possible and it should be entirely feasible to shape an extension of it through Millwater, Silverdale Village and in to the Hibiscus Station location enhancing everyone’s access without cars. Imagine also electric bike and scooter park and rides at each end for those without the bikes or scooters just sitting in their homes. Finally, a similar path along the Orewa Beach giving all Orewa residents and visitors easy and safe non-vehicular access right across our jewel of Auckland’s coastlines.

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Lance Millward

Labour

Howick Local Board
(Botany Subdivision)

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Howick local board area has a great busway project going in connecting Botany to Panmure. Active transport is included but all the small pieces of other shared path are not. The local board has a walking and cycling plan but has not come up with any project to build on this vision. The only project they have done recently is a ramp connecting cascades rd to the cascades shared path. $450k later the ramp requires cyclists to dismount and walk down and is under width like most of the shared path which is as little as 1.2m wide in places. We need to do better.

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.

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Khalyd 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.

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Dale Smith

Independent

Howick Local Board
(Pakuranga Subdivision)

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Clean up our cycleways, making them a lot easier to use and a lot more accessible for all levels of cyclists. Upgrade our footpaths so that they don’t also cause a hazard to cyclists, as there are actively a lot of potholes from current poor planning.

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!

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Anne-Elise Smithson

Shore Action

Kaipātiki Local Board

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Kaipātiki’s proximity to the city, the Northcote development that will attract thousands more people, combined with future major cycling projects make it a prime location to focus on suburban cycling connections. I want to see more safe cycling infrastructure in our neighbourhoods that connect with these big projects: Auckland Harbour Bridge shared path, the Northcote Safe Cycle Route and SeaPath.

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.

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Jesse Jensen

Independent

Kaipātiki Local Board

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Cycling is good for you, it’s good for the environment and should be supported a lot more by the Auckland Council.

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.

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Lemauga Lydia Sosene

Labour

Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board

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As a person in the community who thoroughly enjoys walking and cycling in the Future Streets paths pedestrian crossings and cycle lanes, it is important that these are choices offered to our community on a daily basis – especially for short trips to the dairies, local Countdown or Māngere Markets and local shopping centre.

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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I come from a cyclist family. When I lived in the Hawke’s Bay we were a member of a Cyclist club and participated weekly in Tri-athlon with our kids. Robbie Oliver – ex NZ cyclist owned the Hub Cycle Shop in Hastings and he still does. We joined with him and purchased good road bikes. We lived out of Hastings in Bridge Pa where it was safe enough to cycle for health and fitness.

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’.

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Duncan White

Independent

Manurewa Local Board

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Cycling is affordable and provides healthy lifestyles and exercise opportunities for all socio-economic areas and groups. In the past I have supported grants for bikes in schools and for groups to compete in local Weet-Bix Kids’ TRYathlons. I’d like to continue safe facilities and routes for cycling and Auckland Transport must consider easy access and pathways to encompass public transport integration.

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.

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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.

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Peter McGlashan

Labour

Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board (Tāmaki Subdivision)

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I think making active transport easier for Aucklanders is vital if we are to ease congestion, reduce carbon emissions and help residents stay fit and active later into life. Auckland, for many reasons, has spread far and wide and it’s generally accepted that intensification needs to happen. As it happens, walking and cycling should become more appealing methods of commuting to and from work, sport and public events but they will only become comparable alternatives to driving if the infrastructure is in place. Without supportive infrastructure to keep the more vulnerable younger/older pedestrians and cyclists safe, it won’t be a viable option for parents to let their kids ride or appeal to new, less confident riders who are beginning their journey. If elected to the local board, I’ll be ensuring as much as possible is done to work with Auckland Transport, Bikes in Schools and local Cycling Advocacy groups like Bike Auckland and Bike Onehunga to get some of their suggested solutions explored further and implemented in ways that complement the wider plans across Auckland. The best solutions sit between advocacy groups, global best practice and city planners. The most appropriate local solutions are arrived upon when the expertise from all parties is included and considered before action is taken.

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Isaac Mercer

Independent

Ōrākei Local Board

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Auckland needs more people utilising active modes to get around, bikes should be a big part of that. As often as I can I use active modes and public transport to get around, therefore, I am all too aware of the hazards and issues cyclists encounter in Ōrākei and in Auckland as a whole.

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.

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Pete Williams

Independent

Ōrākei Local Board

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Safety and access for all who use the roads and footpaths is is vital in our city. I want to see alternative transport routes and cycleways like the Glen Innes to Tamaki Drive path completed and ensure where possible, bikes, pedestrians and cars have their own dedicated lane.

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Bobby Shen

Roskill Community Voice

Puketāpapa Local Board

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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.

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Jon Turner

Roskill Community Voice

Puketāpapa Local Board

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As a cycle commuter racking up over 150km every week on the bike, making cycling safer is a very important issue for me. In our rohe we are lucky enough to have the Puketāpapa greenways, (which I explore in my Bike Auckland ‘Guide to Mt Roskill’ post) which make cycling to schools and parks a lot safer for cyclists.

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.

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Julie Fairey

Roskill Community Voice

Puketāpapa Local Board

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I’ve been advocating for and supporting local cycling investment, in particular through the Puketāpapa Greenways Plan, since I was first elected in 2010. I often get around by bicycle myself, when it suits, and frankly it has made me a better driver as I see the road environment quite differently now – somewhere that is a place of importance to others that I share with them, not just a means to an ends, something I am moving through alone in my big metal box. With the support of my Roskill Community Voice colleagues we’ve put a lot of local board resources in, but there’s still so much to do!

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.

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Steven Garner

Independent

Rodney Local Board
(Warkworth Subdivision)

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I am a keen cyclist and have also traveled often to cycle. There are huge benefits to individuals health, the activity, cycling, improves health. And often communities are able to promote economic growth through the support and promotion of cycling. (e.g Otago Rail Trail, Motu Trails, Twin Coast Trail). The more valuable long term benefits of accessible, inexpensive, non polluting, low impact means for people to move from one place to another are immense and already being seen in Auckland. Every rational and responsible elected representative should unreservedly support the development for and promotion of cycling. I certainly do.

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
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Nicholas Mayne

Living Upper Harbour

Upper Harbour Local Board

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Nicholas is already a champion of active transport and is seeking re-election after his first term on the Upper Harbour Local Board. “I see Cycling and Walking as a key plank in future transport planning. In three years, I achieved a lot of what I campaigned for at the last election; but more importantly I have learnt how to implement solutions through the board.”

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.

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Jonathan McDonald

Independent

Upper Harbour Local Board

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Upper Harbour has a few bike lanes. These are great for going from place to place along those routes. Unfortunately, there is a great lack of interconnectedness both between those routes and and between public transport and active infrastructure. I want to see those routes connected up into a safe, effective network along with more storage for bikes at bus stations.

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.

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Kerrin Leoni

City Vision

Waitematā Local Board

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(Kerrin is also standing for Auckland DHB)

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.

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Richard Northey

City Vision

Waitematā Local Board

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I have been a Member of the Waitematā Local Board and of the Karangahape Road Business Association for the last 3 years. I have strongly supported the Karangahape Road redevelopment with its separated cycle lane both ways. I have also supported the Board funding a cycleway through grey Lynn; from Great North Road to Meola Road and along Federal Street and Nelson Street in the central City. I have also supported improved footpaths and walkways and safe scooter provision and all forms of active transport for health, combatting climate change and enabling genuine transport choice.

Alexandra Bonham

City Vision

Waitematā Local Board

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I have been a happy cyclist for most of my life and currently ride a classic purple Taifun. I am a strong advocate for safe cycling AND great walking environments so would really like to see the cycle network linked up, expanded and of a broad enough width to cope with scooters too. Some more bike parking wouldn’t go amiss either. I am standing for the local board of Waitematā where the building of cycleways has slowed a bit, partly down to some errors in design and installation. I will advocate to learn from the mistakes but to keep going. There was huge support from families when they were encouraged to cycle to Western Springs soccer on Saturday mornings rather than take the car. It was a reminder that those with the loudest voices do not speak for everyone. Offering great active transport options is a good thing, for so many important reasons, like climate change, and pollution, and health and fitness, but also to allow more fun, freedom, convenience and independence for kids particularly but all of us.

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Julie Sandilands

City Vision

Waitematā Local Board

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I’m ready to be a champion for Aucklanders on bikes because going forward that’s going to include almost all Aucklanders. The future is bikeable, and we need to get people walking and cycling as their primary means of transport wherever possible, to tackle the needs of the climate and the needs of our own health.
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).

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Glenda Fryer

City Vision

Waitematā Local Board

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I’m a member of Bike Auckland and support Transport Choices for Waitematā.

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.

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Graeme Gunthorp

City Vision

Waitematā Local Board

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Auckland needs more bike lanes, everywhere, as quickly as possible! This will enable safe micromobility for all ages, and enable a move away from car dependence.

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.

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Adriana Christie

City Vision

Waitematā Local Board

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I am a current member of the bike-friendly Waitematā Local Board. I am standing again with the City Vision team to continue the work to extend the cycling network, slow speeds and make our streets safer and healthier for everyone to enjoy. I particularly want to see more kids walking, scootering and cycling to school with safer neighbourhood routes. The local board has recently confirmed a package of safety improvements for Newton School, new pedestrian crossings and funding for two new Greenways routes.

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.

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Jessica 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.

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Reuben Shadbolt

Independent

Whau Local Board

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Bikes empower personal freedom in a very healthy way, as long as users are kept safe.
My action plan is to make biking as easy and safe as possible.

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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.

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Jessamine 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.

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Scorecards

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.

Get Involved

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.

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