Auckland councillors' maiden speeches include call for rebuilding of public trust in Super City

The representative from the Manukau ward made his opening speech at a council meeting today

Sealing roads in Rodney, embracing people with different sexualities and rebuilding public trust in the Super City were among the messages in maiden speeches from five new Auckland councillors today.

Councillors Efeso Collins (Manukau), Richard Hills (North Shore), Daniel Newman (Manurewa-Papakura), Greg Sayers (Rodney) and Desley Simpson (Orakei) delivered their maiden speeches at a governing body meeting at the Auckland Town Hall.

Last night, Auckland Mayor Phil Goff delivered his maiden speech at the swearing-in ceremony of the mayor and councillors.

Collins echoed the comments by Goff about the problem of homelessness and the plight of many people in his community who are forced to decide whether they pay for food, power or rent.

North Shore councillor Richard Hills gives his maiden speech to council. Photo / Michael Craig

Hills talked about a desire for better public transport, addressing climate change, the housing crisis and embracing people with different backgrounds, including those with different sexualities and gender identities.

Newman hoped to use his time to promote more young people, more
women, more Maori, Pasifika and Ethnic New Zealanders, and support
their promotion to elected public office on merit.

Sayers said Rodney was at the epicentre of 17 per cent mistrust and confidence in the council.

Dust particles generated from unsealed roads had been classified by the World Health Organisation as carcinogenic, he said, and a better solution was needed to seal them.

Simpson, former chair of the Orakei Local Board, used her speech to push for greater mana, respect and funding of Locals Boards "which they deserve".

Orakei councillor Desley Simpson gives her maiden speech to council. Photo / Michael Craig