nzherald.co.nz offered both the declared candidates for the mayoralty of the new Super City the opportunity to explain to ratepayers why each deserves to be elected. Here is Len Brown's message:
The Auckland council needs a unifying mayor to bring the region together. The region is undergoing significant change. Previously discrete communities are being asked to come together. For change to work, the region needs a leadership style which is inclusive and is focused on working with communities, and bringing them together.
A feature of my work in local government over the past 12 years has been working with communities. I want to bring this approach to the new Auckland council. If elected mayor, I would ensure that the new council meets within all the existing council areas, because the council needs to unite the entire region.
We face other challenges. There are some core policies and beliefs I would bring to the position to deal with core issues such as the economy, transport, rates, public assets, community facilities, and our region's magnificent environment:
* Completing the work to build fully integrated transport system linking our roads, rail, airports and shipping ports, with a significant upgrade of public transport.
* Supporting the business community through the development of high-speed broadband, a convention centre, better regulations, greater support for tourism and events, and a much greater focus on the export sector and business development.
* Public ownership of assets is crucial to our long-term economic growth. Maintaining our interests in the airport, port and water are crucial to developing those assets for the benefit of all of Auckland.
* Keeping rate increases as low as possible – this year we delivered an inflation rate increase for Manukau ratepayers.
* Protecting and enhancing facilities such as libraries, pools, waterfronts and parks, and working towards, over time, extending the free entry to swimming pools and John Walker Field of Dreams policies which currently exist in Manukau across the city
* Building on the significant environmental work led by Waitakere, and picked up by the other cities. Sustainability must be central to the new city.
It would be a privilege to serve and represent the people as we look to unite this city. We need to turn Auckland into an economic powerhouse, but one which is the best place to raise a family, and which celebrates our culture and promotes our communities.
At my announcement, I deliberately invoked the spirit of John Logan Campbell. He is considered by many to be the 'father of modern Auckland', whose life of public service and philanthropy embodies the spirit of the city. He bequeathed to the city the magnificent gift of Cornwall Park, Maungakiekie. His grave lies on the summit.
As we contemplate the future of this city, we do so mindful we are standing on the shoulders of our great pioneers. It is time to reconnect with our history to find our pathway to the future. It is time to bring Auckland together. Auckland needs a mayor who will serve all of Auckland.
