What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

As Mayor, I’ve made it a priority to support the many clubs, codes, and facilities that keep Aucklanders active. Personally, I’ve always valued sport as a way of bringing people together – whether it’s local rugby, basketball, waka ama, or community activities. Personally I regularly surf at my favourites, Piha and Tawharanui, I play tennis at Westend and I am proud to be the only person on council to have played rugby at Eden Park back when I played for Te Papapa.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?
I consider sport and recreation are vital to the wellbeing of Auckland. Creating social connection, cultural identity, and community pride - alongside fitness. From kids playing Saturday sports morning to older Aucklanders enjoying a walk on our waterfront, these activities are part of our city. They also boost the economy, from hosting major events to supporting local businesses through club activity and visitor spend.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

I want to champion fair access to facilities and opportunities right across the city. That means ensuring our investment reaches communities that need it most, particularly growing areas and diverse communities where demand is rising. I also want to see better alignment between Council, schools, and sporting codes, so that our parks, gyms, and fields are used more efficiently. My focus will be on enabling more Aucklanders to get active more often.

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?
Transport and water infrastructure are critical to getting our city functional. But sport and recreation are just as much about the vibrance of our city. Good infrastructure makes the city function, but sport and recreation make it thrive. They give people reasons to live here, to belong here, and to stay healthy. My approach is not to see these areas as competing priorities, but as complementary — we need reliable infrastructure and strong communities.

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?
We know resources are always tight, and my Council has had to make tough calls. But investment in sport and recreation is an investment in prevention — healthier people, stronger communities, and reduced pressure on our health system. I think we can do better at targeting funding where it has the greatest impact, ensuring fairness across different parts of Auckland, and working more closely with central government and the private sector to stretch every dollar further.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

Family and kid's involvement.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

It is crucial for health.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity? 

Not rebuilding Eden park continually, but having more high standard stadiums across the city. Especially in areas where there are huge numbers of children, affected by crime, gangs crime, poverty etc to give them opportunities to develop talent. 

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?    

You have to be able to travel, and have sufficient water and wastewater infrastructure. However Sport and active recreation is also necessary. 

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

We do not want to cut back on sport spending, however if we find some of it is wasteful and not helping the community, then that portion will be cut.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I have many family members across Auckland involved in community sport.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

High priority

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

To continue to prioritise this

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

High priority

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

Support

When I was growing up I played school sports rugby and hockey, also out of school sailing club at the local yacht club, I was enrolled into local kids tennis holiday programs which were fun. 

Growing up when I ran my windsurf and watersports school in Mission Bay, I organised awesome kids holiday windsurf clinics. 

When I got older, I did club tennis and a lot of individual sports, hang gliding, freediving, windsurfing, surfing, mountain biking and sailing. I enjoy watching the rugby world cups, the big games and warriors finals seasons, America's cup. My appliance and product company is interested to one day develop a training simulator to keep Auckland at the top of world rugby. 

Let's keep all the great diversity going and keep all the clubs alive. Keep up the great work and I look forward to meeting with you soon.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I have a longstanding and active role in community sport and recreation. As a member of the Silverdale Rugby Club since 1970 and a North Harbour rugby referee for 30 years, my dedication to rugby is one of passion and involvement. I was very fortunate at a younger age to achieve the title of New Zealand beach flag champion in 1981 and 1983, representing the Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club, another highlight on the personal side is the commitment to active recreation as i was instrumental in community development, serving on the original building committee for the Hibiscus Coast Leisure Centre, a facility that has become a cornerstone for local families.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

Sport and recreation is so important to the social and cultural side of Auckland. It provides opportunities for community engagement, development, and helps build resilient individuals, especially youth. I believe that physical activities as it fosters a sense of identity and belonging and also contributes to a positive physical and mental well-being. 

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

If elected, you aim to:

• Protect and Enhance Community areas such as parks and public areas including North Harbour Stadium, Orewa Reserve to ensure they remain accessible and well-used by all, preserving vital community spaces.

• Look at the shortage of indoor courts, which are needed to cater to the growing demand for sports such as basketball, netball, volleyball, table tennis, and futsal 

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?

While transport and water infrastructure are definitely critical with Auckland Council, sport and recreation are significant in enhancing the quality of life in Auckland. They contribute to community well-being, social cohesion, and public health. What is essential for a healthy and vibrant community is allocating resources to develop and maintain sports facilities to ensure that Aucklanders have access to spaces that promote physical activity.

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

The current funding initiatives to sports organisations through the Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund, are commendable. However, in the Auckland area, investments are vital for helping to maintain facilities and to help increase participation in community sport and recreation activities. The importance of continuous evaluation and increased funding, I believe, are necessary to meet the needs of Auckland's diverse communities and to ensure equitable access to quality sports facilities.

https://www.c-r.nz/news/building-aucklands-future-why-sports-clubs-are-essential-infrastructure-for-our-growing-city

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I am a current player at Western Springs United, and through the Puketāpapa Local Board, I fought hard for field capacity increases and artificial turf for places like Keith Hay Park. We created a civic event to talk to clubs directly, forge connections, and communicate issues.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

If you read the article supplied, I think it is the best investment in terms of return we can make.

• Sports contribute $5.2 billion to New Zealand's GDP (2.8% of the total).
• Auckland's sports events alone inject $440 million annually into our economy.
• The sector supports 7,227 local jobs with plans to expand by 10,000 more by 2026.
• 1.23 million adult volunteers contribute 51.3 million hours annually, valued at $3.09 billion.
• 84% of New Zealanders agree that sport fosters belonging.
• Research shows improved self-esteem, social ties, and pro-social behaviours.
• Reduced behavioural issues and crime rates in areas with strong sports programs.
• Teaching teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience is essential for urban life.
• Develops leadership skills critical for Auckland's workforce.
• Creates civic responsibility and a community service ethic.
• Sport Auckland's training programs elevate governance capabilities.
• Young volunteers develop lifelong service habits.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

Capacity building is key to growth. We need to build more in terms of artificial turf to extend the playability of our current sports fields. We need to build multi-functional indoor spaces that can be used for multiple sports in prefabricated, commercial-like structures that are more cost-effective. Partnering with clubs that are eager for permission to build and raise funds, but are bogged down by the council process.

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items that have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?

I'm a player and was a coach. The social and physical aspects of investing in sports are a social good for the city of Auckland. Top 5.

What do you think about current funding for sport and active recreation?

There is a problem in dealing with the council, as we have sports clubs partnering with schools to build capacity due to the fraught process through the council. You have people responsible who are unaware of the club landscape or its benefits. There are issues with building capacity under the current framework, and investment spend could deliver more if properly executed.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I have lived in Albert-Eden for 26 years and actively take part in local sport and recreation. I play golf on Auckland’s public golf courses, run in our local parks, and hike across regional parks.   

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

Sport and recreation are essential to Auckland’s wellbeing. They connect people, support health, and strengthen communities. Parks, pools, golf courses, and regional trails bring families and cultures together while giving youth positive opportunities.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

I will advocate for affordable, well-maintained community facilities — parks, sports grounds, pools, and libraries. Supporting grassroots clubs and recreation spaces builds stronger, healthier communities.

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

Transport and water infrastructure are essential, but sport and recreation must not be treated as “optional extras.” They are core to community wellbeing, connecting people, improving health, and giving youth positive opportunities. Parks, sports grounds, pools, and libraries are everyday services that residents value as much as safe roads or reliable water. I believe the council must balance its focus — fix the basics like transport and stormwater, but also invest in affordable, well-maintained recreation facilities that make Auckland a better place to live.

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

At this stage I don’t have the exact figures on how much is currently allocated to sport and active recreation, so I can’t comment in detail on whether funding is sufficient or not. What I can say is that these facilities — from local parks and playgrounds to sports fields and pools — play a vital role in community wellbeing. If elected, I will carefully review the funding levels, consult with local groups, and advocate for fair investment to ensure our community has affordable, well-maintained spaces to stay active and connected.  

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?
I am a member of an athletics club which I run with regularly. I run with parkrun, and was an inaugral run director at the Owairaka Parkrun which gets over 250 people most weeks doing a 5km run. I'm also a big follower of my local football club, Auckland United. I enjoy playing a bit of disc golf and enjoy watching most sports but especially cricket, football, and league.
 

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

Sport is super important for life in Auckland. Be it casual kickarounds, individual pursuits like running and cycling, organised team sports, all of it plays a role in wellbeing for Aucklaners. It is a shame that we have seen a reduction in people able to spend time dedicated to club membership.
 

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

I would like to see more disc golf courses in Central Auckland - for eg, in Newmarket Park which is underutilised. I would advocate that sports clubs should be able to help with the maintenance of their grounds and that contractors should be working with them to get the best outcome for their fields.
 

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

I don't think we should be 'ranking' items - everything plays an important role in having a liveable city. 
 

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

Council does some great support through things like the Regional Sport and Facility Investment Grant, providing sports fields for free, and all of the other infrasturcture we provide. However there is definitely scope for increased funding including from Central Government to make sports and recreation more accessible for all our residents.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

Have had a lifetime involvement in rugby player as a player, coach, manager, administrator at club and union levels. Am a life member of Karaka RFC, was on the CMRFU Council of Delegates for nearly two decades and many years as either deputy chair or chair. Was a director of CMRFU for 11 years. Have been volunteer ground announcer at Navigation Homes Stadium for around 15 years, was ground announcer for the Chiefs for about 6 years and do GA work for NZ Cricket. I am the patron of Counties Special Olympics.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

As an ex police officer I have always been a fan of the saying “play sport stay out of court”. Sport and recreation provides so many positives socially and for our health both physically and mentally. It allows us to dream, show passion and develop and maintain relationships and connections. It can provide senses of pride in our place and people and in my experience as previous manager of the CM Steelers NPC team, opportunities for people to excel and achieve with benefits that are spread so wide. From organised community sporting codes to semi or fully professional organisations to the likes of informal recreation (such as the rise of e biking for those in the golden age), having the opportunity to participate, support and be passioanet about is incredibly important.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

More multi use facilities, in particular indoor facilities. A more indepth study and strategy for all our sport and rec facilities (indoor and outdoor) through a more comprehensive network plan and a long term needs analysis and plan to depoliticise what we have and where.

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

Council is consistently a balancing act in terms of priorities. The likes of transport and water have been some of the highest priority often subject of legislative requirements.

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

I believe the funding from Council is appropriate when considering the general economic and financial environment. There is a strong message from ratepayers to focus on essentials. The challenge is that the difference in thinking between individuals, communities and groups as to what those essentials should be. The underlying approach I take is that any investment needs to be affordable and defendable.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I have been involved in a large sporting club for the last 35 years, in this time I have served as the Club's President for 7 years and held various roles within this club. I am now a Life Member of this club, this appointment means a lot to me. I have spent many years on the side-line at Rugby, Soccer and Netball games supporting my children and local teams. I have also volunteered in a Youth Program for 12 years, this saw me awarded with Hato Hone St. John's service medal. 

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

I believe sport and recreation are hugely important to life in the Auckland Region. I personally want to see all sports clubs and leisure groups protected from Council interference and supported to keep our communities active, social and having fun. 

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

I am committed to retaining 100% of Auckland Council's parks and recreational spaces. I also aim to improve the usability of these spaces. The first step in this mission is implementing accessible toilet facilities for our disabled community members and adding baby change systems. I want to increase walking and cycling paths through parks as part of these improvements.

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

I personally believe sport and recreation are integral to growing a strong community and I feel it is time Auckland Council recognises that. I do support essential services such as water and transport being front-of-mind but we also need to prioritise sport and recreation as a key factor to enhancing our region's wellbeing. I aim to help our Council find a balance that ensures we maintain core services while building healthy, active and strong communities. 

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

I feel that funding should be directed to programs which support community participation across all ages and different demographics. This is all about working towards strengthening access, equity and outcomes in sport and recreation for all Aucklanders. 

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

Before being elected, I helped form East Skate Club and volunteered on the committee as secretary. While not a skater myself, I recognised that there was a lack of opportunities for rangatahi / youth in East Auckland and wanted to offer my skills and experience. I enjoyed working with other club members to successfully advocate for the Lloyd Elsmore Skatepark to be rebuilt into something that will be fit for purpose.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

It's vital that every Aucklander has access to sporting and recreational opportunities at both a local and regional level. Not only does it contribute to physical health and wellbeing, but it helps build community and social cohesion by bringing together our diverse communities. From informal recreation through to professional sports, from our youngest residents through to retired citizens, Aucklanders love being active and council has a key role to play in ensuring everyone has access to. 

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

Council needs to provide a wider and more even range of recreational and sporting opportunities across the city. There are large service gaps, especially in the newer suburbs like Flat Bush, that must be urgently filled - everyone should have access to basic facilities within a reasonable distance from their home, with more opportunities within a sensible distance. But we also need to provide more diverse opportunities, like parkour and skating. As our population grows and becomes more diverse, the opportunities must adapt to our changing needs.

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

Infrastructure in Auckland has not kept pace with our population growth - sport and recreational infrastructure is part of that gap. It's disappointing that we haven't planned and provided for open spaces as it's nearly impossible to do this once a neighbourhood has been built up and the land covered in houses.  With more intensification coming (as required by Central Government), we need to plan our infrastructure better and ensure we have the funding to deliver it.

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

I support the shift in the Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund to move towards the non-contestable funding based on real need. Too often this funding has been allocated but is never spent because the projects can't secure the final amount needed to unlock it - more support for groups/organisations to ensure we're enabling projects to succeed. I know many sports clubs are struggling and the tightening of funding opportunities means groups need more support to continue to operate - partnerships, multisport, and shared ownership schemes will help share the challenges.

I have 9 years Local Board experience, 3 years as Manurewa Board Chair.  When budgets were tight, I found funds for playground renewals, and sports field and lighting upgrades at Mountfort and War Memorial Park.

I am proud to have led the development of the Award Wining All Abilities Playground at Te Pua Park, Manurewa, Auckland—and pleased a FIFA Futsal Pitch has now been secured for the Manurewa Netball Centre.
However, we could have achieved so much more. I want to see an end to missed opportunities that have cost Manurewa-Papakura millions in infrastructure upgrades.

 
I will fight to secure every dollar possible for our sport and recreation needs; Ōpaheke Sports Park, and Clendon Reserve are two examples; as is following through with the comprehensive renewal of Pool and Leisure Centres when required.

In addition to infrastructure, we must provide grants funding to support a wide range of grassroots sports and community groups.

I have been pleased to support CLM Community Sport in their work to ensure that delivery of local sport and recreation initiatives is tailored to the specific needs and priorities of individual communities.  

I support an equity approach; investment and initiatives for people currently missing out on opportunities to be active.

Each area of council services and spending is important in its own right. Delayed investment today creates cost pressures of the future.

 
I will ensure transparency and accountability in council spending so that sport and recreation remains a top priority.

I will prioritise core services and maintenance before new projects, and push for a long-term pipeline of investment in south Auckland infrastructure.

1. My life has always been spread over Sports - summer and winter. At age 78, it is more observing & encouraging, and walking and cycling day by day.

2. We must never ignore the importance of mental and physical health & activity! Not doing so is usually a faster end, to a busy life!

3. More of the same is what we need to see.

4. You cannot compare essential Infrastructure for Transport and Water, with Sports Activities. Public/Private Partnerships have been a huge part of Sport, that started in my early life with huge numbers of volunteers. Today volunteers are far less obvious as Professional Sports has been the way to go? More Infrastructure In Public/Private Partnerships is needed if we can find trustworthy Private parties? The world is a big place, but a bigger mess?

5. Funding in our recessionary time will continue to be a huge challenge, and not solved in the short term. I have always told my Clients, if you allowed a financial problem to prolong, then the recovery takes three times as long to work out. Thus the COVID19 crisis has maybe twenty years to see the fixes and recovery. My Grand Coalition for Auckland Council in 2025 and then NZ Government in 2026, may take Political batles out of the countries progress!

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I have played in community sport and am a member of local ymca gym. 

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

It is vital for mental health, social cohesion, physical health and wellbeing.  

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

Refocusing investment into areas of need where clubs or sporting groups do not have capacity to apply for funding but have a lot of members but lack of facilities. So a brokerage service to help local sports groups with large number of demographics that have low participation in sports.  

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

It is important for community wellbeing and city identity. 

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

The last budget had a good increase to the sport and recreation fund and will be good to maintain or increase investment as it is what the public expect of councils however understand the need for partnerships to deliver sporting facilities.  

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I have a huge passion for sport and am currently on the boards of North Harbour Rugby, North Harbour Gymnastics and Westlake Boys High School, after a time on the Westlake Boys Rowing Society.

During my 12 years on the Kaipātiki Local Board, I’ve led the greatest investment in sport the board has seen.

I push sport at every opportunity I get. I regularly talk with our sports clubs, seek advice, ask what they want improved, and connect them with council staff to investigate improvements to sports facilities.

I also enjoy many hours of sideline conversations while watching games, attend various governance board meetings, and am the taxi service for two busy sporting teenagers and their friends. 10 years on and I’m still cutting up the oranges for my son’s football games.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

Sport is important to me not only because it gives us a reason to be active, but I believe it is the best wellbeing tool for our young people. 

Sport must be accessible, and we need to do everything to encourage our young people to stay involved in sport. At the end of the day, we want our kids to be active, engaged and happy. Sport is one of the best ways to achieve this.

I'm determined to see sport and recreation investment that encourages participation, removes barriers and brings us together like nothing else can.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

My three key sport and recreation priorities are:

1. Co-investing with our high schools and the Ministry of Education, to enable more public access to school sports fields and courts.
2. Lighting more of our sports fields to spread the training, leaving our premium fields for games on the weekends. Increased demand has led to overuse of fields, with too much training impacting the quality of the fields and decreasing their availability. Lights enable training to be spread out, which greatly improves the use of our high-quality, sand-carpeted fields. Lights also allow for greater skills development, and they support player welfare.
3. More investment in our aging sports club facilities. I have pushed for increased funding in the Kaipātiki Local Board grants specifically to fund building maintenance. The growth in sport post-COVID is exciting, but we need more facilities to keep up with demand.
    

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

Better sport and recreation facilities is one of my top three priorities as they deliver benefits for young and old.

Growth in our court and indoor sports is amazing but more investment is needed to keep up with participation. We also want sport to be inclusive and accessible to all. This means making sure it’s affordable.

We must see sport and recreation as a core council responsibility, and increase our funding towards the North Shore facilities. This is one of the greatest investments we can make in our community., and the wellbeing of our youth.

​​

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

To ensure that sport remains accessible for our families, I do not support any proposals to charge sports clubs for the use of council-owned sports fields.

On-charging to clubs would immediately lead to increased registration fees, which will hit families hard and mean some children will miss out.

Instead we need smarter investment in sport and recreation focused on youth wellbeing and improved facilities. Lighting more of our sports fields would be a game changer.

Click here  to view Danielle Grant's video response: 

1. Community sport and recreation
As a mum of two and a long-time North Shore resident, sport is part of my family life. My husband plays for Takapuna AFC, my kids are involved in basketball and volleyball, and I’ve seen first-hand how clubs build skills, discipline, and community spirit. I also enjoy riding my motorbike and being outdoors, recreation should be about freedom of choice.

2. Value of sport and recreation
Sport brings people together, builds resilience, and creates opportunities for young people. It reduces pressure on the health system, supports local businesses, and is central to life on the Shore.

3. What I’ll champion
I’ll push for fair, simple funding that goes straight to local clubs and facilities. I’ve already stood up for Takapuna Golf Course, one of Auckland’s most used public courses, against the council's wasteful plans. Ratepayers’ money should support families, not bureaucracy or pet projects.

4. Sport vs core infrastructure
Transport, water, and flood protection must come first. But sport and recreation aren’t “extras”, they’re part of a healthy, balanced community. The key is getting the basics right, keeping rates low, and backing community-led sport.

5. Current funding
Partnerships have value, but funding must be transparent and fair. The Shore often misses out. I’ll fight for equal funding so more money reaches grassroots clubs directly, instead of being soaked up by administration.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I am past the age of competitive sport, but did play rugby from 5 years old to 22 years old, had a break for 10 years to get married, build a house and have children, then played for another 5 years.

I am an Architectural Designer and Designed, obtained Landuse Consent and Building Consent for my old club, Eastern Suburbs in Hamilton, which was opposed by Council all the way, but beat them in the Environment Court and got the project built and completed, which is still in remarkably good shape in Flagstaff Park.

I am a member of the RSA and enjoy playing Pool and Snooker.

I enjoy all sports and like watching the top level of any game being played well by the Teams.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

I think sports are a great way to stay fit and healthy and are good role models for children to learn sportsmanship, be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?

I am open to any sports being promoted, but in particular would like Western Springs to be saved and continue for another 93 years!

 Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

I see them as equally important for the overall health and fitness of the whole community, as I am seeing far too many "overweight" people who will sooner or later become a burden on the health system.

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?

I am sorry, I do not know the pro-rata figure for the proportion of the Auckland Council's Rates which are allocated into Sports?

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation? 

I ride my bike for transport and fun and stay active in community led classes.

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?

100% integral to positive health, wellbeing and community relationships.

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity? 

That current and future facilities are planned with flexibility for different uses, and accessible for all players.

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   

Equally important in the context of a growing population, land use, and people's health - both mental and physical.

What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation? 

If it's like everything else - I'd take a guess that it could do with a little more - especially with all the great outcomes the investment delivers for the people of Auckland.

What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?
I have no direct connection to sport in New Zealand. Like many New Zealanders I am an avid watcher of Sport and when my children were younger sport was our weekly routine. Most of our organisation in sport was voluntary

What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?
Sport can provide a lot of satisfaction to the people that wish to participate. It also produces tangible health and wellbeing outcomes. But at the end of the day my views do not matter. What matters is the views of those people who wish to participate in sport. Please understand that my response to this question is as rhetorical as the question is. That is because in the context of Auckland there are competing interests. Some people like Rugby, others like Ballet. The real question you should ask the candidates is what would they place in front of sport as a priority?

What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?
I could give you the response that you want to hear, that we should dedicate more money to sport. But I have looked at the council books. It is not realistic to spend more at this stage. In fact, I want to be completely honest, I cannot see how the council can possibly continue to fund a lot of their programs. In the near future the council will have to decide on what interests it will  rationalise.

When that day comes, what could I do for you? - I would leave an open door for you to walk through to ask me how to present your case and help you understand the mood of the council on these issues. I would advocate for you to the other councillors and help you to prepare a rock solid case. That is because your case must compete with other interests. This is how I can help you.  

Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?   
Seriously, who comes up with these questions? How can you ask if sports is  ahead of water, or transport or infrastructure?  In the real world, we commit to spending on vital infrastructure by way of contracts. We cannot break these contracts. It is not like shopping where you go in and out of stores and change your minds. I love sports, I do not love this question.
Here is my suggestion;
I will return to my answer in question 3. If I am elected, then please come to me and discuss this topic and how we can help you to lose the least if cuts must be made. We do not want to make hard decisions, but if we do, then let’s be imaginative and make sure we do not lose things in a way that there is no chance of repair.  Take my advice, you are sports people who like to compete. So get prepared to compete!
Finally, I am a practical person.  I will help coach you towards success if you put in the effort and come to me with your ideas. I will help sell your ideas to the other councillors. That is my honest answer and what I know I can do for you.

Q1. What is your involvement in or connection to community sport and recreation?

I have long supported community sport and recreation, both as a participant and organiser. I have sponsored and promoted local events such as volleyball, badminton, and basketball tournaments, and I was honoured to host a multicultural senior dance festival celebrating active lifestyles across generations. For me, sport is also personal: my son is a basketball player and my husband is a black belt in karate, so our family is deeply connected to the value of being active. These experiences reinforce my commitment to advocating for community sport as a key driver of health, social connection, and belonging.

Q2. What are your views on the value of sport and recreation to life in Auckland?
Sport and recreation are central to Auckland’s lifestyle and wellbeing. In such a diverse city, they provide opportunities not only for physical and mental health, but also for people from different cultures and backgrounds to come together. Active participation builds stronger, more resilient communities and creates a sense of belonging. Whether through organised clubs, casual exercise, or community events, sport enriches daily life and encourages positive habits. For Auckland, sport and recreation are more than leisure activities—they are vital to social cohesion, youth development, and our collective wellbeing.

Q3. What would you like to advocate for or champion in relation to sport and recreation in the next term of Council if given the opportunity?
If elected, I would champion initiatives that integrate sport and recreation with cultural, artistic, and community events to bring people together and celebrate Auckland’s diversity. I believe in promoting both international and domestic sporting and cultural programmes that strengthen community pride, create employment opportunities, and contribute to economic growth. At a local level, I would advocate for improved access to facilities and support for grassroots clubs, particularly in areas where opportunities are limited. My goal is to ensure that sport and recreation are accessible, inclusive, and recognised as powerful tools for building stronger communities and a healthier Auckland.

Q4. Where do you place sport and recreation in relation to the items which have dominated Council in the past few years, such as transport and water infrastructure?
Transport and water are critical infrastructure that councils must prioritise. However, I believe sport and recreation should be seen as equally essential—providing the “social infrastructure” that underpins community wellbeing and quality of life. Strong transport networks and safe water systems sustain our daily needs, while active environments sustain our health, resilience, and sense of connection. A balanced approach is needed: investing in hard infrastructure alongside sport and recreation ensures Auckland grows not only as a functional city but also as a thriving, liveable, and inclusive one. Both must go hand in hand to deliver long-term benefits.

Q5. What is your view of current funding into sport and active recreation?
Auckland Council currently invests around $130–150 million each year into sport and active recreation, covering the operation of pools, gyms, sports fields, and community centres, alongside capital upgrades and grants delivered through partners like Aktive. This investment supports more than a million Aucklanders who participate weekly, and its benefits to health and wellbeing are clear. However, funding growth has been constrained in recent years, with transport and water infrastructure often taking priority. I believe sport and recreation deserve stronger recognition as core infrastructure for community wellbeing, not just “nice-to-have” extras. Going forward, I would advocate for maintaining existing funding levels, improving equity of access across suburbs, and leveraging partnerships with regional trusts, schools, and the private sector to maximise impact. Sustaining this investment is essential if Auckland is to achieve the vision of becoming the world’s most active city.