Looking ahead to big issues in 2026

“Strong collaboration between governance levels makes a real difference to outcomes on the ground and what matters most to our residents.” Times file photo

By Howick Ward Councillor Bo Burns

Happy New Year to our fabulous east Auckland community.

I hope you all enjoyed a restful and well-earned summer break with family and friends.

I certainly did and I’m returning refreshed, energised, and ready to hit the ground running in 2026.

This year will be about relationships, collaboration, and delivery. My focus is firmly on building strong working relationships with key leaders across Auckland Council, engaging regularly with ratepayer and resident groups, and maintaining open and consistent communication with our community.

These conversations are essential to ensuring local voices are heard early and often.

I’ll also be working closely with Bruce Kendall, chair of the Howick Local Board, alongside all local board members, to ensure alignment between local priorities and governing body decisions.

Strong collaboration between governance levels makes a real difference to outcomes on the ground and what matters most to our residents.

Equally important is constructive engagement with our four local Members of Parliament, Parmjeet Parmar, Simeon Brown, Christopher Luxon, and Nancy Lu.

My belief is simple. When local and central government work together on the big issues, we get better and faster results for our community.

One of the most significant issues this year to keep pushing for will be Proposed Plan Change 120, which relates to housing intensification and resilience.

With the general election ahead, it’s critical we keep pressure on decision makers and ensure community feedback continues to be front and centre.

The PC120 process follows several key stages. Public consultation closed on December 19, 2025.

Further submissions open on February 26 and close on March 18, followed by technical assessments and hearings.

I’ll continue advocating for balanced outcomes that protect neighbourhood character while addressing housing needs.

I currently hold two roles within council, which allows me to work across both community outcomes and financial responsibility. I’m deputy chair of the Community Committee, where the focus is on social well-being, community facilities, and local services.

I also sit on the Expenditure Control and Procurement Committee, ensuring decisions are delivered on time, within budget, and with value for ratepayers at the forefront, as well as being part of all the general committees that all councillors attend.

It will be a busy year, with many important decisions to be made. I remain committed to working collaboratively, being visible, and ensuring east Auckland continues to receive strong representation.

If you wish to get in touch, please feel free to connect me here: www.facebook.com/boburnsnz. I’m always happy to hear from you.

I wish you all the very best for a fantastic start to 2026. It’s going to be a great year and I look forward to seeing you out and about in our community.