2019 Local Election scorecards

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Occasionally for recreation.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
Work with local schools ( as l did in the 18 years l served as MP for Te Atatu) to encourage bike use by pupils. Not only is this good exercise for children but will help address the traffic congestion that occurs outside local schools just prior to the opening and closing school day. I might add that between 2007 and 2008 when l served as Education Minister l actively encouraged this policy nationally.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Removing on-street parking to provide space for dedicated cycle lanes

Auckland City has an active policy on promoting cycleways. If elected to the Local Board l would be very proactive in utilising any potential transport and infrastructure funding streams to expand cycling options in the HMLB area.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
On occasions

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
I used to ride my bike to high school. Personally I think secondary schools need to encourage the use of bikes rather cars as a method of transport to school as do parents. Bike riding in fact prepares you to drive a car and use your judgement.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Maybe

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Footpaths should be made wider and allow for cycling and walking and possibly scooters. Bikes and cars do not really mix just as a car verses a truck or train the car will come off second best.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Maybe. Every community needs a heart. Cars will always be around, I do believe wider footpaths and wider roads would help improve safety and that is from a health and safety consultant. However costly.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Maybe. They need to justified. I would like to see better evidence and that cyclists will actually take advantage of such measures.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Yes I ride my bike where possible, mainly for recreation monthly. I work from home so don’t have a commute. I have a 3 month old and a 4 year old so am currently encouraging my 4 year old to learn to ride at the moment so spend time regularly walking/running around our streets and local parks (in particular the new Royal Road track) teaching her to be more confident on her bike.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
We need safer streets especially around school zones to encourage more children to ride their bikes (and give parents the confidence that they are safe to do so). I would support the safer school zones that are currently proposed. I have contributed discussion on behalf of Heart of Te Atatu South about the connections plan to ensure that we have safe cycleways. We also need to see groups encouraging bike use at community festivals so I support seeing Bike Te Atatu and other groups at these giving away tips and tricks on biking, and also support our bike hubs run through EcoMatters.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes. The connections plan has consulted with a number of key stakeholder (including HotAs) but I believe it needs to have community consultation to ensure that the Connections Plan is thorough and caters for the needs of the community.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocating for redirecting funding from roading projects in Henderson-Massey

Implementing a targeted rate to provide additional funding

Removing on-street parking to provide space for dedicated cycle lanes?

I think all options need to be considered before making a decision on the best method to fund and support the Connections Plan.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes. I was involved in the consultation process at each stage of the Te Atatū South Connections Plan and have strongly advocated for this throughout my campaign. As a Te Atatu South resident, I know that this is very important to me and my community. I look forward to continuing to advocate for this on the Local Board, should I be elected.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes. From speaking with my neighbours and residents in Te Atatu South I understand that there is general support for the speed-calming measures. The issues arise in the actual implementation – with some people being concerned that the speed humps themselves are too pointy. This needs to be looked into to make sure the humps are effective but safe and not causing too much of a nuisance.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. This long-awaited pathway will be fantastic! I look forward to cycling along it one day with my family.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Maybe

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
No, but grandchildren often ride

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
Continue to develop cycleways although security of bikes at schools is often a cause for children refusing to use bikes to school.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocating for redirecting funding from roading projects in Henderson-Massey

I am opposed to any targeted rate.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes. A plan which must now be accelerated and implemented as soon as possible.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes. Rathgar Road is another example of slow streets.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. Looking for ways to further provide multiple transport choices.

If you are a current member of the local board, can you describe what you’ve done in the last board term to support walking and cycling in Henderson-Massey?
Yes. We continue to advocate for further cycleways with Auckland Transport and NZTA.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Maybe

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Yes I love riding.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
Firstly I would consult with schools and communities to identify what the barriers are. This would a good point to start and determined steps for moving forward. There are a number of contributing factors to traffic congestion but seeing more people using bikes as a means of transport would be awesome and great to see.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes. This will address many issues. Traffic Congestion, see a reduction in vehicle gas emission, communities utilising local resources like our bike ways, streams, promoting exercise and well being and the benefits continue.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocating for redirecting funding from roading projects in Henderson-Massey?

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Recreation – with the kids.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
A first step would be ensuring the facilities were established and safe for children to bike to schools. Initial thoughts around increasing primary kids participation in riding to schools involved working with cycle groups to help understand the feasibility of creating a cycle bus with donated bicycles as a cycle bus would allow children participation under supervision. Lack of safety and security of reaching schools on a bicycle matched with time poor parents due to congestion and working makes it difficult to entice or promote cycling to school amongst our most junior members of the school community. Creating the habit of cycling to school in the youngest members as early as possible would be the best way to increase future participation in cycling to school.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Maybe. Absolutely some of the projects need to prioritised that connect schools to communities. Other parts need to be balanced with other priorities in the community.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocate for no parking and clear zones in and around school zones during peak times as similar conditions are currently in place with some bus lanes around Auckland.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Maybe

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes

Will you come for a ride with us?
Maybe

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
No, the last time I rode one was with the Bike Te Atatū.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
We need to create a safe environment that encourages our tamariki to bike to school. As such, this would require a multi-prone approach which includes speed limit reduction areas around schools, and greater driver education that would reassure parents that their children would be safe. We need cycle ways which connect children to their schools and greater access to bikes for low income families. In addition, I believe the board should support schools to provide cycle safety programmes. As an elected member of the Henderson Massey board, I have supported the bike hubs, and advocated for funding for families, regardless of their socio-economic status, to have access to low-cost or free bikes.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes. HMLB has demonstrated leadership by championing the HM Connection Plan which I have supported. The plan supports residents and cyclists to move between communities safely, and thus encourages alternative models of transports. As a social justice advocate, I would like to see funding allocated to those who live in low socio-economic areas who are often impacted by transport poverty, so they may have access to affordable free bikes as well. Cycleways should not only be for a certain demographic of our community.

I believe our buses need too be affordable and accessible especially for the residents of Massey where there are no transport connections. Given that 80% of residents travel outside of our local board area, a long term strategy needs to be developed. I would never claim to be expert, however I do understand the connection between advocating for alternative models of transport, and open spaces which promote the enjoyment and kaitiakitanga of our whenua.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocating for redirecting funding from roading projects in Henderson-Massey

Implementing a targeted rate to provide additional funding

Removing on-street parking to provide space for dedicated cycle lanes?

I agree with all of these approaches. I have been excited by the Panuku ‘Unlock Henderson’ initiative which has incorporated into their new development greater access to public transport and safer cycle ways – including tactical urbanism. We also need to ensure that property developers are responsible for ensuring that their developments include enough space on roads for the cyclist community. I would like to see greater physical barriers between motorists and cyclists on roads to reduce the chance of cyclists being harmed. Any new or upgrades to roading should consider improving the cyclist experience. For example, Panuku shared three options for roading around the Opanuku park. I advocated for the third option which included walking and cycle options even though this was the most expensive option.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes. It has been exciting to see the community engagement and the subsequent plan unfold. I support future funding to implement the improvement laid out in the plan – particularly those supporting connections and enabling people to have a variety of safe options to get around Te Atatū South. We know that the more people feel connected to their communities, the more potential for community cohesion and inclusion.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes. Absolutely. As a parent this would give me more confident that my child would be safe on the road. I found the bike ride with Bike Te Atatū when I first became a local board member quite eye-opening. It gave me a better insight into some of the hazards and let me understand the opportunities for safer cycle areas.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. The board allocated extra funding towards the Whau Pathway, as this enabled safer, and better connection, in around our local board area including access to the city.
I believe that we need to raise awareness about climate change, the importance of alternative modes of transports, and the Whau Pathway. These are connected issues.

If you are a current member of the local board, can you describe what you’ve done in the last board term to support walking and cycling in Henderson-Massey?

1. I supported the Henderson-Massey Connection plan to ensure residents are able to walk, cycle and move easily between communities.
2. I voted for the allocation of additional funding for the Whau Pathway.
3. When I was aware that the board had additional funding for a smaller project, I advocated for the new pathway from Te Atatū Road to Danica Esplanade.
4. I attended a meeting with the Board members of Panuku, where I raised the issue of bike poverty with a developer who was going to investigate sponsorship opportunities for free bikes for children in our area (This was when I learnt that things can take time with Auckland Transport).
5. I have supported the cycle ways which are currently being included in the Panuku development – including the beautification of the path with a harakeke design.
6. I have advocated for bilingual signage in the connections plans which acknowledges the cultural heritage of our area.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Yes, I used to ride my bike quite often for recreation – alongside my husband. I do find I am not as fit as I used to be and it is not often used now – my grandson loved it when he came to stay with us.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
I continue to support the provision of cycle lanes and shared paths through Henderson Massey Local Board and earlier as a city councillor in Waitakere City. Our Auckland roads are too congested for children to cycle on the roads.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes. It needs to be run out over many years as cycle and walking routes must be safe and this requires them to be carefully designed – not just added as an afterthought.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocating for redirecting funding from roading projects in Henderson-Massey

All Henderson Massey Local Board roading projects that our board can influence with AT have safe cycling/ walking provision. Full redesign of a road and berms is required when removing on-street carparks – not ad hoc decisions. Do not support another targeted rate as the AT road safety money is there to provide for safety improvements, including cycling and walking.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes. Henderson Massey Local Board worked with the Te Atatu South community for months and got good input – long-term funding decisions will be made next year. AT is doing their own road safety work in Te Atatu South.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes. This is an Auckland Transport project from their road safety budget and we work with them on this. An example of a success is the Edmonton Road raised crossing near School Road where cars now slow to 20-30 kmph – in years past I have seen children and older people crossing and motorists not even stopping.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. Support the completion of Te Whau Pathway as a shared cycle/walkway. Henderson Massey Local Board has funded the on-land components of our part of the pathway and consents. Further funding is required from Auckland Council to fund the balance of the project over several years.

If you are a current member of the local board, can you describe what you’ve done in the last board term to support walking and cycling in Henderson-Massey?
Made sure every project on streets, in parks and around community facilities connects to good cycling/ walking paths – however there are many gaps in the linkages that will need to be funded over time. eg Edsel St PTS cycleway/walkway linkage is missing and we have to work with AT for this project.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Yes I do bike for recreation, but not as often as I’d like. I have seriously considered buying a bicycle trailer to tow my two pre-school children, but in all honesty the roads still don’t feel safe enough for me yet.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
I’d love to see a lot more children biking to school. We need more infrustracture to make it safe to cycle in our area. I will support Auckland Transport’s vision zero plan aimed at implementing a safe system approach to reduce death and injury. I’d like to see more cycle ways and traffic calming measures implemented in our area.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Maybe. It is encouraging to see local body governance with a vision towards the connecting of shared paths to town centres, schools, public facilities, recreation areas and public transport hubs. We desperately need these measures, and major public transport improvements, to reduce carbon emission and connect West Auckland with the wealth of our city. In saying that, I appreciate that council funding is limited by budget and that not every project can be completed at once.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Removing on-street parking to provide space for dedicated cycle lanes

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes

If you are a current member of the local board, can you describe what you’ve done in the last board term to support walking and cycling in Henderson-Massey?
I’d love to see this project move forward to completion.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
I ride for recreational purposes particularly with my little nephews and nieces. It’s great for fitness.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
I remember riding my bike to school every day. I have received a number of complaints by whānau who want their kids to bike to school but the footpaths/roads are too unsafe for kids. What I have been most proud of is sponsoring schools bikes and helmets through the Henderson-Massey Local Board grants system.

1. Free or affordable bikes for kids.
2. A safe, designated route for them to travel from home to school.
3. Encourage parents/adults to ride with kids to school to make it fun and enjoyable.
4. Get kids to watch cycling competitions online (such as the Olympics) to inspire and motivate kids to want to ride a bike.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Removing on-street parking to provide space for dedicated cycle lanes

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes. My family lives in Te Atatū South. Many of the students that I teach live in Te Atatū South and they either bike or walk to school (Rutherford College). I made sure that they had a say in this plan.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. This is a priority project for the Henderson-Massey Local Board and Whau Local Board. This has enormous benefits for our community. I am really excited about this and look forward to using it.

If you are a current member of the local board, can you describe what you’ve done in the last board term to support walking and cycling in Henderson-Massey?
I was a massive supporter of the Henderson-Massey connections plan. One of our major goals was to make it easier to get around without a car and so therefore this plan provides opportunities to get around by walking or cycling. This plan also supports the climate change targets that we have.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
I do ride a bike for recreation purposes.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
We need greater awareness and programmed activities to encourage biking for children in schools. There could be greater impetus given to sports organisations and groups to develop and deliver on cycling / biking initiatives. if elected I will support such measures.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes. With wider consultations and pragmatic initiatives, the connections plan will provide positive outcomes for our communities.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Removing on-street parking to provide space for dedicated cycle lanes

A combination of approaches – additional funding, provision of space for bike lanes etc, will be productive ways to deliver on the connections plan. We should also engage more widely with our communities to perhaps get further thoughts and perspectives on delivering on the plan.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes. I will advocate for, and support initiatives that enable our communities to connect and enjoy a sense of belonging. This is an important outcome for Henderson-Massey.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes. There is a need to ensure safer and slower driving in our streets to keep us safe. Such measures have the potential to further encourage children to cycle to schools safely. Speed calming measures are therefore effective and is an important priority for Henderson-Massey.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. It will be a fantastic outcome for our communities.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Yes, to work when I can. I absolutely adore it, and as an adult learner I have taken to it with a born-again zeal. Due to the nature of my work I don’t have the ability to do it always, but I love to use the Twin Streams path in particular as part of my commute when I can. I am currently trying to bed in a cycling culture with my kids, we have to start them early.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
It is a two-pronged approach, hard infrastructure to help safety and education and learn to ride initiatives to embed the culture of active modes.

I am proud of our record on the Board with safety zones. We were the first community in Auckland to get in place the infrastructure for safer streets, in the Flanshaw area of Te Atatu South. I am proud to say I have been campaigning since 2011 along with Phil Twyford for a safer streets “Home and School Zone” in Henderson North, and we are now implementing the initiative that we have fought for over that time under my chairship.

I also need to mention education and training components, it is important to partner with the Trusts for bike tracks and learn to ride in schools, as successfully implemented in Ranui and Don Buck schools this term.

Finally, the Rutherford Primary drop off safe zone pilot was successful, lets build on that to reduce rat-running at school entrances.

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes. Of course. The looming threat of climate change threatens the way of life of all Aucklanders, and this is a key plan that we can implement to contribute at a local board level. One of the policies I have always worked hard to achieve is to fill the gaps in our cycle network.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocating for redirecting funding from roading projects in Henderson-Massey

Removing on-street parking to provide space for dedicated cycle lanes

I feel that all of these suggestions can be achieved.

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes. This was a prior campaign pledge of mine, and I am so proud that we could achieve it with the community. I was involved in the setting up of Heart of Te Atatu South way back in 2013, and have walked with the community (in fact my local neighbourhood) since then to get to this point. The plan has outlined exciting actions that will create a heart for the community, and crucially active modes to be encouraged all the way as well. I have always been a huge fan of a town square for Te Atatu South around the community centre, and recent plans I feel are mostly right, but do not give sufficient importance to walking and cycling. Let’s stop encouraging cars for short trips to beautiful places in the same area.

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes. Of course, as discussed this has been I feel a major achievement, along with Henderson North.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. This is a central plank of my Council campaign, and I have strongly supported this as Board chair. It’s a game changer for New Lynn, Glendene, Te Atatu South and Peninsula. Local Boards in both ours and the Whau have scraped together funds to do bits of it, it’s time Council came to the party and invested the serious funds we need.

If you are a current member of the local board, can you describe what you’ve done in the last board term to support walking and cycling in Henderson-Massey?
Well all initiatives on the survey here I am very proud of, I have led this through on the Local Board with enthusiasm and I feel I have gotten results. I should also mention two further pieces of work here.

Firstly, I feel that all this work has come from a strong relationship with Bike Te Atatu. We have had regular meetings, I have been lobbied for smart transport, and the results are really to the credit of Bike Te Atatu and the wider community. There is a hell of a lot more to do, but as all Westies know this can happen with strong relationships. If I am elected to this Board again, I would be delighted to continue it.

Finally, I should mention the Danica Esp pathway. This was a project actually born of terrible tragedy and that should be acknowledged. I was down there just yesterday, marvelled at this work and how such a small bit of infra can actually improve lives for local residents. This was pushed by Bike Te Atatu, we got around the table, and after much struggle we got it done and you can use it right now. That is why I love local government and representing this community, and thank you all for that work.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Yes

Do you ride a bike? If so, what for and how often?
Occasionally for recreation with my grand kids.

The percentage of children biking to school is at its lowest point ever – just 3% of secondary school students and 2% of primary school pupils. Our area suffers significant unnecessary congestion as a result. What will you do to encourage cycling to schools?
Organize bike days on a regular basis.

Free marquees to bike repairs at open air events by local boards. One good example is my Henderson Massey local Board provided this on Flying Kites Day for the past years.

Also, more funding for bike clubs and biking events in West Auckland

The next few questions relate to the Henderson-Massey Connections Plan. 

In the context of Council’s recent climate emergency declaration, do you think that implementing the connections plan should be a priority?
Yes. Better connections between key locations such as the Lincoln and Triangle Roads and Te Atatu Road and Henderson are important.

Consultation between the Auckland Transport and the cyclist as to road accessibility and safety should be held on regular basis.

In order to deliver the connections plan, would you support:
Advocating for additional funding for Henderson-Massey through the normal channels (i.e. via Auckland Transport)

Advocating for redirecting funding from roading projects in Henderson-Massey

The Henderson-Massey Board recently adopted The Te Atatū South Plan “Te Atatū South – a place to go to, not just drive through”? Do you support the actions in the plan aimed at making sure “Te Atatū South is well connected, safe and is easy to get around”?
Yes

The next question relates to the Te Atatū South road safety improvements project. 

As part of a citywide push for safer streets, Auckland Transport is installing speed-calming measures that will help to slow vehicles and looking to drop speed limits to 30km/h in some areas. The recent work in Te Atatū South (centred around Flanshaw Road) is part of this. Do you support speed reduction measures?
Yes. 30 k per hour would be more appropriate in school zones.

Do you support the completion of Te Whau Pathway?
Yes. I am an appointed Trustee to this Project for the past six years.

If you are a current member of the local board, can you describe what you’ve done in the last board term to support walking and cycling in Henderson-Massey?
Supported community grants to walking and cycling safety. Strong advocate for using of bikes for most open air events of the local board. Eg parks events.

Will you come for a ride with us?
Maybe