Want Waiheke's unique voice to be heard in the SuperCity?

I have the leadership, media, business and community experience together with academic qualifications to make Council take notice.

I have been privileged to serve our community for 13 years by founding businesses, Rainbow Copy Centre (now Copy Expresso) and local newspaper Waiheke Marketplace  that have created jobs and ensured diverse views are aired without political bias. Their success comes from listening to the needs of the community, a key skill when working with a team to represent the diversity that is Waiheke. I have been involved in many local organisations. I will seek every opportunity to improve infrastructure, amenities, and the environment in a sustainable way that promotes Waiheke’s wellbeing.

The Supercity calls for a new approach. I will meet the challenges with fresh ideas, vision, tenacity, commitment, an independent voice and strong sense of community.

Top 5 Issues

1. Governance
   We need to continue to press our claim for as much local governance and delegated power and control of our own affairs as possible under the new Supercity structure. This will be a major issue during the first year of the new Local Board and an ongoing battle throughout the term.
   It's vital we engage with our new Council in a way that ensures Waiheke's unique character is understood and appreciated. This means we need strong leadership that can work co-operatively to gain maximum benefits for everyone. Effective communication and a levelheaded approach will gain more than a negative attitude.
2. Rates
   None of want to see large rate rises and waste of resources. Prudent budgeting of our limited resources for the benefit of all will go a long way to limit rises. In future we will have 'targeted' rates, so engaging in expensive posturing on issues that are unlikely to succeed will exact a heavy price on ratepayers. I want to get more bang for our bucks not less.
3. Matiatia
   Any measures that threaten to make it harder for commuters, tourists, islanders or businesses to have access to the city via the Matiatia transport hub should be vigorously opposed. Our economy and wellbeing require an efficient, affordable connection with the mainland.
4. Jobs
   "To have a job is to have dignity'. Businesses (whether for profit or not for profit) create jobs. They are the lifeblood of a healthy community. I will support measures that make it easier for businesses to grow and create employment opportunities. This will enable young people to have a future on the island and secure incomes for those who want and need to work.
   
   
5. Infrastructure
   It is imperative we improve all aspects of our infrastructure so the community and visitors alike can benefit from improved and safer, roads, pavements and walkways. We need to improve local amenities, particularly for the young and old. We need to foster sustainable practices that protect our unique environment.

Personal Profile

Qualifications

I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and a Masters Degree in Business Administration

Work History

I have worked full-time since leaving university at the age of 20. Prior to moving to New Zealand in 1985 I was a Flight Lieutenant in the Womens Royal Air Force. After settling in New Zealand I became an entrepreneur in the publishing world. I owned and published several magazines (Flyfisher, Fishing News, NZ Fisherman) as well as starting a database management business before moving to the island in 1996. My partner and I, started the Rainbow Copy Centre, now Copy Expresso, in 1997 followed a year later by founding the local newspaper, Waiheke Marketplace.

Experience and community involvement.

I started the Waiheke Marketplace as a support for businesses and as an independent voice for the community. It was essential that this should be a free newspaper available in every home. I am very proud that the tradition of editorial independence and lack of political bias we established is being carried on under Fairfax ownership. I have been a member of Waiheke Toastmasters for 7 years and have just handed over the presidency to take on the role of Vice President, Education. I was a founding member of the Waiheke Businesswomen’s Group in 1999, a group that flourishes today raising money for community benefit and providing a social network for businesswomen. I am a member of the Waiheke Bridge Club and one of the 'Awesome Foursome' Quiz Team that regularly attend Quiz nights

Personal attributes and qualities.

I have strong leadership skills.  I am a good listener and clear communicator. I am level-headed, approachable and reliable. I love living on this island and welcome the opportunity to be of service to my local community.

Sporting Achievements

I represented Great Britain as a fencer from the age of 14.