Phil Goff to Run for Auckland Mayoralty in 2016

Phil Goff has today announced his decision to stand as an Independent candidate for Mayor of Auckland next year.

“I’m standing for Mayor because I believe that together we can create a better Auckland – a city where talent and enterprise can thrive. That’s the kind of city I want to lead,” said Mr Goff.

“For Auckland to succeed, it must operate effectively and efficiently. The Super City was supposed to eliminate waste and bureaucratic duplication. That will be my priority. Under my leadership, we will be fiscally prudent and learn to do more with less.”

As Mayor, Phil Goff will focus on a number of issues that directly impact on the lives of Aucklanders, including tackling traffic congestion and increasing the housing supply.

“People deserve to enjoy the fantastic lifestyle offered by Auckland with its stunning natural environment, friendly communities, diverse cultures, and strong learning and working opportunities. Instead, they’re watching their dream of home ownership drift further from their reach and spending hours trapped in their cars on motorways.

“These are complex problems and there are no simple solutions. But we can make a difference. Bringing forward infrastructure funding and providing more bus, cycle and walkways would help ease the gridlock. Policies that give the building industry the confidence to gear up for construction will also make it easier for homebuyers.”

Mr Goff is standing for Mayor as an Independent and is committed to working in an inclusive way with future fellow councillors and the Government, whatever its political makeup.

“This city needs a Mayor with experience and political expertise. As an MP and Cabinet Minister, I have 30 years’ experience in bringing teams of diverse people together and leading large organisations dealing with complex issues on tight budgets,” said Mr Goff.

“I will bring new leadership, energy, integrity and commitment to the role. As Mayor, I’ll serve the interests of Auckland and its people.”

Mr Goff said that if elected Mayor next October, he would immediately resign as an MP.

“I was elected MP for Mt Roskill for three years and I would resign that role and force a by-election with reluctance. I intend taking a leave of absence from Parliament once I embark on intensive campaigning next year. Until then, just as I balanced being a Cabinet Minister and MP for many years, I will continue serving my constituents full-time as their MP as I have done for more than 30 years.”

ends

© Scoop Media