GARY BROWN FOR ALBANY WARD COUNCILLOR

Elect Gary Brown – A True Local Hero for Albany Ward in 2025!

There are community champions—and then there’s Gary Brown, a name synonymous with heart, hustle, and hometown pride on the Hibiscus Coast.

As we head into the 2025 elections for Hibiscus & Bays Local Board & Albany Ward, Gary Brown stands out not just as a candidate, but as a living, breathing embodiment of community spirit.

With decades of service, boundless energy, and a deep-rooted love for the Coast 7 surrounding areas, Gary’s commitment to the people, places, and potential of our region is unmatched.

 A Legacy of Local Love

From organising high-impact fundraisers that have brought in tens of thousands of dollars for local charities, to sparking joy at community events with his trademark charisma and can-do spirit, Gary has dedicated his life to lifting up others—and doing it with a smile.

He’s no stranger to a jersey either! A proud Silverdale Rugby Club member since 1970, and a North Harbour rugby referee for 25 years, Gary’s sporting roots run deep.

And did we mention he’s a New Zealand beach flag champion (1981 & 1983), representing the Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club? Talk about dedication, discipline, and Coastie pride!

Heart of the Arts. Soul of the Community.

Whether it’s on stage, in the stands, or behind the scenes, Gary’s always present. An accomplished entertainer and supporter of the Hibiscus Coast Youth Centre, he’s inspired generations through theatre and youth programs alike. His passion for community development saw him on the original building committee for the Hibiscus Coast Leisure Centre—a space that has become a cornerstone for local families.

Future-Focused: Transport, Environment & #FerryPower

Gary is ready to tackle the big issues. He was a strong advocate for creating smarter transport solutions—by land and sea. He’s pushing for practical, sustainable options like a ferry service to ease congestion and reconnect us to the wider region. #FerryPower isn’t just a hashtag, it’s a movement—and Gary is steering it forward.

 For Our Families. For Our Future.

Married to Tracey, a Funeral Director with Hibiscus Funeral Services, Gary is a proud dad to five incredible children, who  have attended local schools. His motivation is simple: he wants to preserve and protect the Coast for the next generation—ensuring the beaches, parks, and community spirit he grew up with remain vibrant and accessible for years to come.

In 2025, vote for experience, passion, and progress. Vote for someone who’s not just part of the community—he’s the heart of it.

✅ Vote Gary Brown for Hibiscus & Bays Local board & Albany Ward – the Coast’s voice for a brighter future

WHY BE A COUNCILLOR ?

Why I’m Standing for the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board & ALBANY WARD

My passion for community involvement has shaped every step of my journey. From organising local events and serving as chairman of a previous board—where we proudly delivered 143% of planned projects—to running a successful restaurant and performing professionally for over 30 years, I’ve always worked closely with people from all walks of life.

Now, I’m ready to bring that experience, energy, and dedication to the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board & Albany Ward.

This isn’t just the next step in my journey—it’s a personal commitment to the place I love most: the Hibiscus Coast & Albany areas.

What Makes the Hibiscus Coast So Special

Being from the Hibiscus Coast, it's a place  where community spirit thrives. It’s where children play on our beaches, sports fields are alive with energy, and our elderly feel connected and valued. With its stunning coastline, vibrant community clubs, and treasured green spaces, this region offers a unique quality of life that deserves protection and thoughtful planning.

I’m committed to ensuring this region grows in a way that maintains its character and charm, while meeting the needs of all who live here—from young families to retirees.

What I Stand For

If elected, my priorities will be focused, practical, and community-first:

1. Protecting Orewa Reserve We must safeguard the Orewa Reserve as a vital community space. I’ll fight to retain the playing fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and ensure there’s adequate parking—so this treasured area remains accessible and well-used by all. The sustainability of North harbour Stadium

2. Fixing Local Transport Issues

Transport congestion is a daily frustration. I’ll push for the development of a much-needed rounda-bout at Silverdale to ease congestion and improve bus access to the village and industrial area. We need smarter, more efficient transport solutions that match the pace of our community’s growth.

3. Planning for Future Growth

Our region is expanding rapidly, and our infrastructure must keep up. I’ll advocate for forward-thinking development that includes roads, public facilities, and services that support a high quality of life—without compromising the natural beauty and community fabric of the Coast.

4. Smarter Spending

I’m committed to protecting ratepayers’ money. That means stopping wasteful or low-impact pro-jects and ensuring every dollar is invested where it truly benefits our people—such as sustainable funding for essential organisations like Surf Life Saving Clubs, Hibiscus Coast Youth Centre, and the No. 5 Squadron Air Training Corps.

A Voice That Listens and Leads

I believe in action, not talk. I’ll be a strong advocate for the needs of our community, ensuring your voice is heard and respected at every decision-making table. I’m ready to stand up for what mat-ters—preserving what we love and planning wisely for the future.

Let’s shape a thriving, connected, and sustainable Hibiscus Coast—together

WHY I WANT TO BE ELECTED

My passion for community involvement has shaped every step of my journey. From organising local events & serving as chairman of a previous board—where I proudly delivered 143% of planned projects—to running a successful restaurant & performing professionally for over 30 years, I’ve always worked closely with people from all walks of life. Now, I’m ready to bring that experience, energy, & dedication to the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board.

MY KEY SKILLS & QUALITIES

As a former Local Board Chairman, I’m proud to have delivered 143% of board projects, a result that reflects strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of our community’s needs.

As a professional entertainer, I’ve connected with people, learning the value of listening, engaging, and building relationships. I know what it takes; manage a team, and deliver under pressure. These diverse experiences have shaped me into a strong, empathetic leader who knows how to get things done.

MY TOP THREE ISSUES

1. Protecting Orewa Reserve's future by ensuring adequate parking & playing areas, including the much-loved basketball and volleyball courts.

2. Fixing Transport with a practicality - a new roundabout in Silverdale to improve traffic flow & enable better bus access to Silverdale Village & the industrial area.

3. Planning for Growth – ensure our infrastructure keeps pace—roads, public transport, facilities, & essential services must be strengthened to support a thriving, future- ready community.

A Vision for Economic Growth, Thriving Local Business, and Celebrating Our Culture

To build a strong and resilient Hibiscus & Bays community, we must grow our economy in ways that reflect who we are—supporting local enterprise, creating new opportunities, and preserving the cultural identity that makes this region so unique.

Here’s how I plan to make that happen:

1. Strengthen and Support Local Businesses

Local businesses are the backbone of our economy. To help them thrive, I will advocate for:

• Business-friendly policies at the local board level that reduce unnecessary red tape and make it easier to start and grow a business.

• Collaboration with business associations to promote local shops, services, and hospitality venues through events, local campaigns, and tourism initiatives.

• Improved infrastructure, including transport and parking, to ensure customers and tourists can easily access key business areas like Silverdale, Orewa, and Browns Bay.

We must also ensure small businesses can take advantage of digital tools and innovation to compete and grow in today’s economy.

2. Invest in Sustainable Tourism and the Visitor Economy

The Hibiscus Coast and Bays area is a natural draw for visitors. I propose we:

• Develop responsible tourism initiatives that showcase our beaches, parks, trails, and town centres while protecting our environment.

• Partner with local iwi and heritage organisations to create cultural tourism experiences that reflect our shared history and attract visitors year-round.

• Support eco-tourism and creative industries that offer both employment and cultural story-telling opportunities.

Tourism done right brings both pride and prosperity.

3. Promote Cultural Heritage and Community Identity

Our identity as a region is deeply tied to our diverse cultural history. I will:

• Champion cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and performances that celebrate the Coast’s diverse communities.

• Support funding for Māori and Pasifika-led initiatives that preserve language, art, and storytelling.

• Ensure that local heritage sites and public spaces reflect the rich cultural fabric of the area through inclusive design, naming, and signage.

By investing in cultural expression, we strengthen our community’s sense of belonging and attract visitors who value authenticity and connection.

4. Encourage Youth Employment and Skills Development

A strong local economy includes a future-ready workforce. I will:

• Work with education providers and local employers to create youth pathways into trades, tourism, and service industries.

• Support initiatives like the Air Training Corps, Youth Centre, and clubs that build skills, confidence, and connection for young people.

This vision is about more than just economic growth—it's about building a vibrant, connected, and future-focused community. By supporting local business, preserving our cultural identity, and investing in smart, inclusive development, we can ensure the Hibiscus & Bays area thrives for generations to come.

Building Stronger Communities and Improving Local Services

Creating a thriving, connected community isn’t just about buildings and roads—it’s about people. My focus is to strengthen the social fabric of the Hibiscus & Bays area by improving local services and facilities, while ensuring every resident feels included, supported, and proud to call this place home.

Here’s how I plan to make that happen:

1. Invest in Community Facilities That Meet Real Needs

We need modern, accessible, and well-maintained facilities that serve all ages and interests. I will:

• Advocate for upgrades to community centres, sports fields, libraries, and youth hubs, ensuring they’re fit for purpose and future-proofed.

• Work closely with community groups to identify gaps in services and spaces, and direct funding toward high-impact projects.

• Ensure public spaces like Orewa Reserve are preserved and improved for everyone—families, athletes, seniors, and visitors alike.

2. Prioritise Wellbeing Through Local Support Services

Wellbeing is more than health—it's about connection, safety, and support. I will:

• Support sustainable funding for organisations that serve youth, seniors, and vulnerable communities—like the Hibiscus Coast Youth Centre and Surf Life Saving Clubs.

• Back initiatives that promote mental health, community safety, and social inclusion, including outreach programs and peer-led support groups.

• Encourage collaboration between local health providers, schools, and community leaders to address the unique challenges of our growing population.

3. Build a More Connected Community

Connection begins with communication and shared experiences. I will:

• Promote neighbourhood-led events, festivals, and workshops that bring people together, foster inclusion, and celebrate our diversity.

• Support initiatives that engage Māori, Pasifika, migrant, and refugee communities, ensuring everyone has a voice and feels valued.

• Champion better digital infrastructure and communication tools to help residents stay informed and connected, especially in more isolated areas.

4. Empower Youth and Support Older Adults

A well-rounded community supports both its future and its elders. I will:

• Create more opportunities for youth development—including job pathways, creative spaces, and leadership programs.

• Ensure safe, accessible transport and facilities for seniors, and support social initiatives that prevent isolation and promote active ageing.

5. Listen, Act, and Be Accountable

Above all, building community starts with listening. I’ll be a visible, responsive Local Board member who:

• Consults regularly with residents, community groups, and businesses.

• Makes decisions based on real feedback, not political agendas.

• Fights for fair, transparent use of public funds that benefit the whole community.

Strong communities are built on trust, shared purpose, and a commitment to care for each other. That’s the kind of future I want to help create for the Hibiscus & Bays & Albany areas.

Let’s build a place where every voice matters, every neighbourhood thrives, and no one is left behind

How I Believe We Should Manage Auckland’s Water — Supply, Quality, Stormwater, and Wastewater.

Water is one of Auckland’s most critical and precious resources. How we manage it today will directly impact the health, sustainability, and resilience of our communities tomorrow. We need a balanced, long-term approach that safeguards our water supply, protects our environ-ment, and ensures future generations have access to clean, reliable water.

Here’s how I believe we should tackle it:

1. Secure and Diversify Auckland’s Water Supply

Our growing population and changing climate mean we must secure water supply through a mix of smarter use and long-term planning. I support:

• Investment in sustainable infrastructure that captures and stores water efficiently, includ-ing reservoirs, dams, and potential small-scale desalination where appropriate.

• Encouraging rainwater harvesting for households and businesses to reduce reliance on the main supply.

• Public education on water conservation and responsible usage, especially during droughts or periods of low supply.

We can’t afford to take clean water for granted.

2. Protect Water Quality at the Source

Clean water starts with protecting our catchments, waterways, and coastlines. I will advocate for:

• Better land-use management and stricter controls on pollution, sediment runoff, and in-dustrial discharge into streams, rivers, and harbours.

• Strengthening partnerships with Mana Whenua, environmental groups, and schools to help monitor, restore, and protect natural waterways.

• Supporting wetland restoration and riparian planting to naturally filter and improve water quality across our region.

A healthy environment means healthy water—and healthier communities.

3. Upgrade and Future-Proof Stormwater Infrastructure

Stormwater is one of Auckland’s biggest environmental challenges, especially during heavy rain-fall events. I support:

• Upgrading old stormwater systems to prevent flooding, reduce pollution, and protect our beaches and marine life.

• Investing in green infrastructure, like rain gardens, swales, permeable surfaces, and urban wetlands, to manage stormwater naturally.

• Stronger integration of stormwater planning into new developments, especially in high-growth areas like the Hibiscus Coast.

4. Improve Wastewater Management and Transparency

Wastewater overflows pose serious health and environmental risks. I will push for:

• Continued upgrades to Auckland’s aging wastewater network to reduce overflows and increase capacity.

• Separating stormwater and wastewater systems where possible to prevent cross-contamination and spills into the sea and streams.

• Holding water and utility providers accountable for performance, transparency, and long-term planning.

5. Work Regionally, Act Locally

While water management is often handled at a regional level, local boards play a key role in influencing priorities, funding, and community education. I will:

• Ensure our local voice is heard when it comes to infrastructure investment and environ-mental protection.

• Support local water-sensitive projects that improve resilience and water quality in our own neighbourhoods.

Water is life. Let’s manage it with care, collaboration, and a commitment to future generations

The Five Step Process