Our team for the Waitakere Ranges Local Board
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Mark Allen
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Michelle Hutton
I’m a dedicated local leader, community advocate, and proud Westie. I believe in thriving communities, transparent local decision-making, and protecting the places we love.
Council systems often feel distant or difficult to navigate — I want to change that. By championing accessible, responsive local decision-making that is grounded in community values, I will strengthen the connection between our community and Council.
My professional experience in the education, science, and manufacturing sectors includes product development, research, capital projects, teaching, specialist support, and leadership roles.
I bring 15 years of hands-on governance and community leadership experience across the education and not-for-profit sectors. I serve as Presiding Member of a school board and have held governance roles at local, regional, and national levels within Playcentre Aotearoa, including as Co-President. These roles have strengthened my ability to lead strategically, collaborate effectively, and deliver meaningful outcomes.
I’m committed to connecting our people and championing our place.
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Greg Presland
I am seeking the privilege of your vote for the Future West candidates and me. I have lived most of my life out west, my children have grown up here and I have run my law practice here.
I was previously a Waitakere City Councillor and I have served four terms on the local board. I have also been involved in significant community projects such as Lopdell House restoration and the construction of the Whau Coastal Walkway. The work is great, trying to make our piece of paradise better one decision at a time.
The things that I prioritise are protecting our environment, supporting the arts and making sure our communities are cared for and enhanced. And we need to prepare for the future to face the challenges that our city faces. The west is a special place and Council has a role in making sure that this continues
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Mark Roberts
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Jessica Rose
A fresh face for Waitākere, but no stranger to council. I’ve been asked by friends and colleagues to bring my wealth of governance experience and excellent track record to our ward.
I’ve worked in both private and public sectors across education, housing, and conservation. On council, I've led portfolios across transport, environment, and community development, where I’ve championed integration of climate action into decision making. From how we plan our neighbourhoods to how we strengthen local resilience.
If elected, I’ll make sure your rates deliver you value. I’ll defend the Ranges Heritage Area (Te Wao Nui-a-Tiriwa), support the Dark Sky initiative and making our beaches swim-safe. I’ll advocate for better upkeep of our roads and cheaper transport options for everyone.
With your support, I’ll be your voice for a Waitākere that’s safer, more equitable, and genuinely great for all who live here. Vote for me and the Future West team.
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Hannah Slade
Kia ora, I’m Hannah — a proud Westie and long-time Piha local. I’m standing for the Waitākere Ranges Local Board because, like many of you, I felt frustrated after the 2023 cyclone. Our roads, drains, and communities have been under-resourced for too long — and the supercity model just hasn’t delivered for the West.
I’ve spent over 20 years working in programme management and community engagement, including with grassroots groups, new migrants, and the disability community. I’m currently the Accessibility Programme Coordinator for the Auckland Arts Festival, and I’m passionate about inclusion, transparency, and decisions made with our communities, not for us.
As a mum, a partner to a park ranger, and someone who’s called Piha home for over 20 years, I love this place and want to help protect it for future generations.
Let’s build a stronger, fairer, more resilient future for the West — together.
Vote Hannah Slade. Future West.