Communities and Residents (C&R) candidate Will McKenzie has won the Albert-Eden (Maungawhau subdivision) by-election, helping to secure a C&R chair and majority on the local board.

“I’m incredibly grateful for trust our communities have placed in me to represent them on the Albert-Eden Local Board. Thank you to the 2,748 people who voted for fair, transparent and sensible decision-making.

“Working as part of the strong C&R Maungawhau team, I look forward to putting our locals first and helping to deliver safer streets and neighbourhoods, critical sports fields upgrades, better local transport options, a protected environment, and thriving and accessible local village centres,” says Will.

Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Councillor Chris Fletcher is thrilled with the result and looks forward to working with Will in the community.

“I thoroughly enjoy working with Will. He is smart and strategic with a passion for our community. His depth of knowledge and professional experience makes him a strong representative for Albert-Eden.”

Will has lived locally for over 25 years and closely supported many community organisations in their battles to stop inappropriate developments in local parks, including Friends of Fowlds Park and Save Chamberlain Park. He is a resource management lawyer with 25 years’ experience in law, transport policy, and sports management.

Incoming Chair Lee Corrick is excited to get to work and help navigate Albert-Eden through the coming period of growth and change.

“This by-election was fought on local issues that matter to the people of Maungawhau. Our area is a very special part of Auckland and our team is excited to walk the talk and actually stand up for what our residents and businesses really need.”

Will will be sworn in as a board member at the next Albert-Eden Local Board meeting on 8 June 2021.