Ōrākei already has strong ACT representatives in Parliament with Brooke van Velden and David Seymour standing up for the local residents of Tāmaki and Epsom. But our mission to deliver real change and deliver strong advocacy and representation for the local community doesn't stop there. That’s why ACT Local has selected three community-minded individuals who have excelled across different sectors to be a voice for change at Local Board level.

Waiheke Vineyard Founder and Local Business Leader, Rob Meredith

Rob brings over 40 years’ experience in technical and business management across Europe, Canada, and the United States. After moving to New Zealand, he founded Peacock Sky Vineyard on Waiheke Island and went on to serve as President of the Waiheke Winegrowers Association.

Outside of work, Rob enjoys spending time with his wife in their local neighbourhood of St Heliers. Rob has a strong instinct for practical problem-solving and responsible financial management, shaped by his career and community involvement.

“I’m running for the Ōrākei Local Board because rates need to be spent wisely. It’s time to get back to basics: keeping our parks and community facilities well maintained, making our streets and public spaces safer, and strongly advocating for better roading, parking and infrastructure from the council and its agencies. I want practical steps that make a real difference for local families and businesses.” – Rob Meredith

Local Business Owner and Former Lawyer, Amanda Lockyer

Born and bred in Auckland, Amanda has spent nearly 30 years in the Ōrākei Ward. A former commercial litigation lawyer in New Zealand and the UK, she now runs Inspire by Amanda, a thriving local fitness business. She lives in St Heliers with her husband and two children and is passionate about giving back to her community.

“I’m standing for the Ōrākei Local Board to bring fresh energy and a strong local voice. With a background in law and business, I know how to make practical, common-sense decisions to safeguard ratepayer funds, deliver transport solutions that work, improve safety and public spaces, and protect our coastline and waterways, creating safe, vibrant, and thriving neighbourhoods.” – Amanda Lockyer

Educational Institute Leader and Lecturer, Martin Mahler

Martin is Head of School for the MBA Programmes at Auckland Institute of Studies and a lecturer with years of experience in education leadership and governance. As a parent, he knows how local decisions affect everyday life and is committed to making sure council decisions reflect the priorities of local families.

“I’m standing to bring more accountability, transparency, and common sense to local government. Local boards should focus on delivering the basics well, managing ratepayer funds responsibly, and genuinely listening to the people they serve. I’ll be a strong advocate for safer streets, better local connections, and planning decisions that respect our community’s character and property rights, keeping Ōrākei one of Auckland’s most liveable areas.” – Martin Mahler

When you vote ACT Local, you know what you're getting:

• Fixing the basics
• Cutting the waste
• Stopping race-based politics
• Restoring accountability
• Ending the war on cars

ACT Local Government spokesperson Cameron Luxton says:

“ACT Local candidates are community-minded Kiwis who’ve had enough of wasteful councils & local boards treating ratepayers like ATMs. It’s time to take control on behalf of ratepayers to restore accountability and deliver real value for money. ACT Local is about getting the basics right: maintaining roads, fixing potholes, keeping streets clean, and respecting the people who pay the bills. Our candidates won’t divide people by race or get distracted by climate vanity projects. They’re here to serve, not lecture." – Cameron Luxton