Auckland’s progressive political parties joining forces for October’s local government elections

Three Auckland political parties - Citizens & Ratepayers, Auckland Now and Advancing Auckland - are joining forces to offer Aucklanders a unified ticket of candidates under a common policy platform at October's local government election.

"It's a challenge and an opportunity to see Auckland's local government politics put in good hands," said John Slater, chairman of the Joint Venture Executive.

The three parties are combining forces to build the best possible future for Auckland, he said.

Advertisements will soon be placed in local newspapers inviting prospective candidates to put themselves forward for election either to Auckland City Council or the Auckland Regional Council, said Mr Slater

Citizen's and Ratepayers, Auckland Now and Advancing Auckland will co-ordinate activities for a unified team to contest the elections for Auckland City, Auckland Regional Council and the area health boards across the region.

John Slater, former president of the National Party, will co-ordinate a single campaign for the three parties.

"The time is right for this kind of co-operation" said Mr Slater

"Auckland desperately needs a strong sense of political unity and decisive decision-making aimed at solving some big issues facing the region."

In Auckland City, major infrastructure projects have been developed by the Auckland Citizens & Ratepayers Now-elected councillors.

"It is vital for Auckland that a progressive, capable team committed to moving the City forward is returned to finish the job," said Mr Slater.

At the Regional Council, there is clearly a need for a team of Councillors with the required vision, skills and commitment to moving the region forward in a progressive and business-like way.

The Auckland region generates a third of New Zealand's wealth. We all aspire to enjoy the world's highest living standards, but much of our infrastructure is holding back Auckland from making better progress.

With government positioning the regional council and Auckland City to deliver major infrastructure improvements in coming years, it is vital that the region's political leadership is the best available.

"We are looking for top-drawer people - with name recognition and a passion for Auckland." Mr Slater encourages anyone with a driving wish to make a difference to Auckland to consider putting themselves forward for selection.

Advertisements seeking candidates to stand either for the Auckland City Council, Auckland Regional Council or one of the region's area health boards are scheduled to be placed in newspapers in the next fortnight, said Mr Slater

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