Sharon Stewart is stepping down as an Auckland councillor after 30 years in local government.
Sharon Stewart is stepping down as an Auckland councillor after 30 years in local government.
Auckland councillor Sharon Stewart is stepping down at October’s local body elections after 30 years.
Stewart was first elected to the Howick Local Board in 1995 and joined Auckland Council in 2010.
She expressed pride in her service and looks forward to spending more time with her family.
Auckland councillor Sharon Stewart is stepping down as an Auckland councillor at October’s local body elections after 30 years in local government.
In a statement this morning, Stewart said she is not seeking re-election in October.
Stewart, who was first elected to the Howick Local Board in 1995 and thento the Manukau City Council in 1998, has been on the Auckland Council since its inception in 2010.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed serving the local community with a career in local government spanning 30 years, but it’s now time to step aside.
“It is with a great deal of pride and humility that I have continued to enjoy the wonderful support of my community over this time. I never took their votes for granted and have always done my best to represent them.
“While I am sad to go, it is now time to pass the torch to someone new, and I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and my lovely grandkids,” Stewart said.
Fellow Howick councillor Maurice Williamson could not speak highly enough of Stewart, saying she had worked tirelessly on local issues and on behalf of the local community, leaving him to focus on council financial issues.
Howick councillor Maurice Williamson had nothing but the highest praise for Sharon Stewart and her work in the community.
Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown said Stewart was a stalwart of local government for three decades, representing East Auckland with compassion, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of duty.
“She has been a dedicated advocate for our community and has always done her absolute best for the people who elected her,” he said.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown is seeking re-election for a second term, saying he is asking Aucklanders to back him to finish the job.
“I have delivered on most of the policies I set out to achieve, which ensure real results for our city. I’ve made tough calls, tackled the big issues, and done the job well.
“But there’s more to do, and I have the experience to get it done. That’s why I will be standing for re-election as Mayor of Auckland,” Brown told supporters at his launch in February.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson is also considering a bid for the mayoral chains, telling the Herald last week she is going to announce in early June whether she’s standing for the top job.
