Bo Burns running for council to “get things moving”
Bo Burns: “I’m standing for council to be a strong and effective voice for east Auckland, because it’s time we stopped being left behind.” Times photos
Bo Burns, the dynamic and well-known community leader, is officially announcing her candidacy for a Howick Ward seat on the Auckland Council in the upcoming 2025 local-body elections.
The owner of Times Media, publishers of the Eastern Times and Franklin Times, says with her “proven track record of delivering results”, she’s determined to bring “new energy and bold vision” to the table of the council’s Governing Body to champion the needs of east Aucklanders who, in her opinion, have long been overlooked.
“East Auckland deserves to be seen, heard and actioned,” Burns says.
“We need strong representation that not only listens, but gets things done. I bring the energy, communication skills, and business acumen to make that happen.”
Burns is a two-term Howick Local Board member, and in this term, she has been deputy-chair.
She lives in Howick with her husband and two daughters and is “deeply embedded” in the east Auckland community.
She’s the founder and director of Promo Factory, a Howick-based business that has earned both local and international recognition over the past 23 years.
Her accolades include awards for Innovative Ideas, Exceptional Service, and SME Business Growth.
In addition to Promo Factory, Burns is also the “proud owner” of Times Media, publishers of the Eastern Times and Franklin Times.
She purchased the business out of liquidation in 2024 and has successfully rebuilt it into a thriving, community-focused media company, a testament to her entrepreneurial drive and deep commitment to local storytelling and connection.
With a dedicated leadership team and staff in place to manage her companies, Burns is fully available and committed to serving in a councillor role.
She says her business experience, hands-on leadership style, and passion for the east Auckland region position her as a capable and enthusiastic “advocate for positive change”.
“Our diverse and rapidly growing community deserves a representative who understands its unique needs and knows how to advocate with purpose.”
Affectionately known in the community as “Bo on the Go”, Burns is known for her relentless drive and get-it-done approach.
Her community involvement spans across sports coaching, school mentoring, serving on industry boards, and organising one of east Auckland’s most beloved annual events, the Howick Santa Parade.
Burns says she’s not only seeking re-election to the Howick Local Board, but elevation to the council’s Governing Body, where she believes she can have even greater impact.
“I’m standing for council to be a strong and effective voice for east Auckland, because it’s time we stopped being left behind,” says Bo.
“I will champion better and more reliable public transport, urgently needed infrastructure upgrades, action on coastal erosion, and the revitalisation of our neglected facilities.
“I’m committed to supporting local business and tourism growth, and I’ll push for the long-overdue Ormiston and Flat Bush community centre to be delivered.
“Our diverse and rapidly growing community deserves a representative who understands its unique needs and knows how to advocate with purpose.”
Burns believes the council needs more people with practical experience, community understanding, and a no-nonsense attitude to results.
“I’m not a career politician. I’m a business owner, a mum, and a passionate east Auckland local.
“I understand the real pressures facing families and small businesses, and I’ll fight to make sure our community receives the quality of services that fairly reflects the rates we’re paying.”
A “logical thinker and natural collaborator”, Burns says she pledges to be “an accessible councillor who listens, acts, and brings fresh ideas to the table”.
She’s also passionate about “sustainability, protecting Howick’s historic charm, and championing initiatives that future-proof the region for generations to come”.
“I’ll always be about action, not excuses. I’ll work hard, ask the right questions, and make sure east Auckland has a voice that can’t be ignored,” she says.
To follow Bo Burns’ election campaign or to get involved, visit: www.boburns.co.nz.
Auckland Council local elections are by postal ballot in September and October, with election day on October 11.