I have accumulated broad knowledge, experience and skills and believe it is my time to step forward to champion the causes of Devonport-Takapuna at this critical time of change.

My independent status ensures that I research all issues myself.  There is no backstop.  I like to be proactive in gaining a understanding of background data relating to issues but most importantly would identify all stakeholders and ensure that I am informed by their perspectives.

Both my grandparents lived in Milford, my parents and I went to schools in Belmont, Takapuna and Westlake, and my family schooled in Hauraki, Takapuna and Milford as do their children.  My mother was in a Devonport rest home for her last ten years and I regularly took her around the area.  Takapuna-Devonport is my home turf and I have run, walked and cycled all corners of it.

My undergraduate degree and Masters qualifications are in management.  My business experience is through ownership, work experience and academic research.  I have been a sports representative in various disciplines and am experienced and interested in sports generally.  I was introduced to art and theatre through the nationally recognised Goodwin side of my family and my entrepreneurial activities through the Chalmers side.  I have a keen interest in singing, music and contract bridge.

Extensive travel through developed and underdeveloped countries has enlightened and informed me.

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Published Profile Statement (150 words)            

•       3^rd generation Takapuna-Devonport resident with family and grandchildren here.
•       Passionate about the area and positively promotes it.
•       Has time and skills, as a former university lecturer in management, to focus on your economic, social and environmental needs.
•       Business owner and researcher who understands what helps to grow your business and will fight for the right conditions.
•       Keen sportsperson pushing for quality facilities, sports options, and the hosting of international events.
•       Develops safe cycling and walking opportunities.
•       Fosters communities developing their own specific identities.
•       Guardian of the environment for our and future generations.
•       Loves the arts and wants to ensure that local venues meet international standards so that we can showcase our talents and hold events that  satisfy our cultural needs.
•       Pushes for better integration and efficiency of public transportation.
•       Capable planner and debater.
•       Listens to and values your input.
•       Makes wise decisions on your behalf.

Top 5 Issues

1. Preserve our Environment
   The Devonport-Takapuna area is blessed with beautiful beaches, volcanic cones, parks and lake. We need to preserve and possibly add to these for our use, local and foreign tourism, and future generations. Some infrastructure and growth development is necessary but whether for transport or use by different stakeholders we must seriously consider demand, design, and impact on current residents, business, tourism and future generations. Once spoiled our treasures are lost.
   Case in point: A projected ferry wharf for Takapuna Beach.
   
2. Community Identity
   Devonport-Takapuna’s city, towns and local communities have communally perceived self images. Each area needs to specifically identify and articulate what makes them special and ensure that this becomes a vision that is preserved and adhered to with future development.
   Case in point: Resident dissatisfaction with high-rise plans for Milford.
   
3. Complete Projects
   Expensive projects have been undertaken without considering how or when the “dots” will be joined.
   Case in point: The bus stations need a regular and reliable small bus shuttle service and possibly parking (underground), to work effectively.
   
4. Hasten Access
   Devonport-Takapuna is pleased with many aspects of its peninsular isolation but it is heavily dependent upon access to and from Auckland for much of its employment and tourism opportunities.
   Case in point: Distant completion time of future harbour crossing.
   
5. Dig Down
   To preserve our environment unsightly or intrusive developments should go underground.
   Case in point: Car parks and access to Auckland.
   

Personal Profile

As a Local Board Candidate I have spent weeks walking the Devonport-Takapuna area and am privileged to have met and talked with so many people in their businesses, sports and social clubs, and in the streets.  I am grateful for the time they have given to me.  I enjoyed listening to what was said and have their messages “stored”.   I will be back to get more input in the future on all those issues that are important to us as we become part of the new Auckland Super City.

I am optimistic that we will gain in many ways from this change.  We have to.  I intend to see that our interests are safeguarded.

As an example of a gain, I recognise what Auckland City has done with its beach improvement programmes.  There is good cleaned sand, uniform rock wall edging, stainless steel railing and bins, wooden walkways and ramps alongside grassed edging under pohutukawa trees.  I would expect that our beaches get top-level treatment.  We want to attract tourism, including visitors from the other side of the harbour!

My skills at building coalitions and networking will be important as we share common goals with adjacent wards and subdivisions and need to work through council controlled organisations (CCOs).  I am a very determined person and will focus to achieve positive outcomes for Devonport-Takapuna.