Former Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins has today announced his campaign for the Dunedin City Council by-election, called to fill the vacancy left by Jules Radich’s sudden passing.
“Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge the tragic circumstances that have brought us to this point. My thoughts are with Pam, their whanau and friends for whom this process will undoubtedly be tough” Mr Hawkins said.
Mr Hawkins served for nine years on the Dunedin City Council (2013-22), the last three as Mayor.
Significant changes in the political landscape since last year’s local elections, coupled with the timing of the byelection, have driven his unexpected return to the local political arena. When nominations closed last year, nobody anticipated the scale and speed of the government’s reform programme. Rates capping and regional reorganisation required robust responses.
“I am standing to offer leadership that is ready to go on day one; that is willing and able to challenge the government’s reforms; and that is prepared to make decisions in the best long-term interests on the city.”
Having previously been elected on a local Green Party ticket, Mr Hawkins will return to his roots by standing as an independent candidate.
“My values haven’t changed. I will continue to prioritise building stronger communities, looking after our natural environment and strengthening ties with mana whenua and Māori more generally.
“And these aren’t just empty promises. I have the track record to back it up.”
Whether it’s rising levels of homelessness, the impacts of our changing climate or the rise of the far right, the solutions are the same.
“The long-term interests of this city aren’t best served by the politics of austerity. The only alternative is to be found in community and collective action.”