Mayoral Announcement - Sir Barry Curtis

I have decided on the 20th Anniversary of my Mayoralty on Friday, 17 October to announce that I will again stand for Mayor of Manukau at the Council elections in October 2004 for one more term. The people of Manukau are my passion and life and have given me magnificent support over the years.

I have been very proud indeed that over the last three elections I have received the biggest majority of any Mayor in New Zealand. I took my success last time as a clear indication of support to my philosophies of social justice and equity.

I consider that my result also reflect my dedication and commitment to the City and its people which is made up of so many diverse communities.

There is still a great deal of work to be done and I am proud that I still have enormous energy, enthusiasm and total commitment to addressing the big challenges which Manukau faces every day.

As I travel throughout the City virtually 7 days a week, I am very conscious of the social, economic and environmental issues that concern people the most. I am very appreciative of the tremendous networks and friendships that I have built up over the years with the key interest groups of the City.

I am very keen indeed to continue to pursue my vision of Manukau as a proud, progressive and prosperous City. I stem from humble beginnings and I appreciate that people want to have a much better standard of living and reside in neighbourhoods which are safe and clean.

We need to continue to advocate strongly to Government for more resources for Manukau to achieve better health, education, employment, housing and community safety. I am totally committed to ensuring with the central government that we have adequate police resourcing to eliminate crime and violence from our communities.
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I am also determined that the roading network for Manukau City and the Auckland region is completed so as to relieve the dreadful congestion which is making life so difficult for people and children travelling to work, schools, shops, recreation and entertainment. I am especially keen to pursue the construction of the Eastern Corridor to ease traffic congestion particularly in Howick, Pakuranga and East Tamaki. I will also be pushing for improved public passenger transport including integrated bus, rail and ferry services.

I enjoy an excellent working relationship with the government which I know is moving towards a funding package with local Councils to ensure we can provide for full implementation of the Regional Land Transport Strategy.

As we consider funding I am very committed to ensuring that all Council activities are affordable, as many people, particularly those on fixed incomes are under continual pressure to make ends meet. My whole focus over the years has been service to people. I have the drive to continue to help and support our diverse communities in the immediate years ahead. I consider it very important, even one year out from the elections to convey my total and continued dedication to the City and the welfare of our people.

Sir Barry Curtis 17 October 2003

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