Island will have a say - Brown

WAIHEKE VISIT: Mayoral candidate Len Brown with Waiheke Rotary president Dave Cook.

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Mayoral candidate Len Brown told Waiheke Island residents he would like to see their local board under the supercity have wide-ranging powers to manage island issues.

Speaking to around 40 people at the Waiheke Rotary Club meeting on Monday night, Mr Brown said he would like to see "most" local decisions made in Waiheke by its local board.

"The real potential benefit and change in the supercity is through the powers given to local boards and you are in a position that is different," he said.

Speaking about his policy on board powers, he said: "The board's powers are 75 to 80 percent of what the Auckland council does in your community now.

"Most of the decisions made in Waiheke will be made by your local board. I support this. This gives you a much stronger platform to deliver policies that you see as fitting for your community."

He gave examples such as stormwater and wastewater issues, social and community funding and resource management.

Mr Brown also said local boards could advise the council about issues related to alcohol in local communities.

He said there is a risk for communities under the supercity but there were benefits such a larger budget under one council.

Mr Brown also said he would look at the ferry system.

"We have a beautiful harbour.

"I want to see us open up ferry terminals and see more traffic on the harbour."

- Waiheke Marketplace