I’m a proud Westie, experienced local leader, and passionate advocate for strong, connected communities. I believe in local decision-making that’s community-driven and focused on delivering real benefits across West Auckland.

I have a strong commercial background, with experience in science, manufacturing, and education, including research, capital projects, product development, and leading specialist teams, alongside 15 years of governance experience in the not-for-profit sector.

I believe the Trust can be a thriving, community-owned business and a powerful force for good in the West. It plays a vital role in ensuring alcohol is sold responsibly, while supporting our schools, clubs, community services, arts, and more.

I’ll focus on growing community investment, building strong partnerships to offer more vibrant venue options, and finding smart improvements across the Trust’s operations.

The Trust belongs to us—let’s back it, grow it, and ensure it delivers for the whole community. Vote Michelle Hutton and Future West.

I seek your vote for the Portage Licensing Trust to support the schools and communities that champion our area. I'm dedicated to protecting our most valuable taonga (treasures)—people and nature. 

My family has called Glen Eden home for 11 years. During this time, I've connected with many locals, taking action for the environment and each other.

I have a proven track record of leadership and evidence-based decision-making. With a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Auckland, I've been a researcher and educator. I now advocate for local charities like BirdCare Aotearoa and the West Auckland Toy Library. I also serve on the board of a social enterprise that empowers women to pursue higher education.

Glen Eden needs an energetic voice today. With Future West, I'll advocate for responsible sales to enhance community actions through The Trust. 

Together, let's nurture a safe and thriving Glen Eden.

I’m a lawyer, trained mediator, and Green Bay local. I live here with my wife and daughter and am standing as your Future West candidate for Titirangi Green Bay on the Portage Licensing Trust.  

I believe the Trusts can and should have a great future and they have a role to return profits to our communities, not private pockets. Trusts should serve the public good, support grassroots sports, arts, and social initiatives that make our area thrive. 

I bring 19 years’ legal experience and a strong commitment to transparent, community-led governance. I’ve volunteered with Suburbs Juniors for five years and other clubs. I’m active at my daughter’s school and passionate about inclusive, thriving neighbourhoods.  

I commit to ensuring the Trust operates with integrity, fairness, and a firm focus on community outcomes. I’ll work to continue innovation and keep living wage accreditation. Let’s keep our local assets working for local people.

I am seeking the privilege of your vote for the Portage Licensing Trust.

I have always been a staunch supporter of the trusts. Growing up in South Auckland, I witnessed  how bottle shops proliferated, driven by profit rather than social responsibility.

The west stands in contrast to the south, thanks to the trusts.

Contrary to popular belief, the trusts do not stifle competition. In Titirangi village  there are six places where you can buy a beer, and only two are controlled by the trusts.

The resources provided by the trusts are invaluable. My involvement with the Lopdell Trust, the Whau Coastal Walkway Trust, and the Portage Ceramics Trust has underscored their significance.

If elected, I will ensure that the trusts continue to be living wage employers. I believe the management structure is overly complex and can be streamlined. Additionally, I am committed to simplifying the grants process and improving returns.

I’ve lived out west almost my entire life. Over those years, one of the cornerstones of our community has been the Waitākere Licensing Trust—our largest social enterprise, responsibly distributing alcohol and a vital funder of local services, clubs, schools, events and spaces. I'm running again because I believe the Trust can be an even stronger responsible business and deliver even more community good.

This last term we have set the organisation onto a stronger path. We have provided higher quality franchise stores with more choice and better value for our dollars.

We have cut over $7m in internal costs, increased our “giving back”, fixed our buildings, paid the living wage, developed a property plan, and invigorated our risk management and health and safety initiatives.  In Waitakere we expanded the Swanson store and are about to open a new store in Northwest. All whilst responding to storms, a degrading economy and a tightening regulatory world.

The Trusts need to give more money back as well as continue to refresh and grow our venues to keep up with our rapidly growing and changing community. I want to return to continue driving that momentum forward. I’m also passionate about creating more youth retail and hospitality learning pathways and more strongly supporting community hospitality to be more successful, and profitable.

I’m proud of how far we’ve come—and even more excited about where we’re headed. Let’s keep building a Trust that truly serves the west.

Please vote for me.