Venkat Raman
Auckland, April 2, 2022
Gary Brown is a person who listens to people; which is why he has decided to enter the race for the Auckland Mayoralty this October.
According to him, there were expressions of interest from many people that he should seek the Number One local government post in the country’s biggest city.
Unite, empower people
Experienced in what we call retail politics, Mr Brown is currently the Chair of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board and has been involved with the local communities as a businessman, volunteer and community worker raising funds for popular causes.
It is understood that he has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local and national charities.
He said that he has been urged to run to offer genuine leadership, helping Auckland rediscover its identity and realize its potential.
“My vision is to bring Auckland back to life and ensure our city is one where everyone feels safe, supported and can have a voice when it comes to creating a better future. We have an economy to rebuild. We have disenfranchised communities to bring together. But in understanding Auckland – every pocket, every community, every issue – I know that we can forge a world-class city with united communities and empower people,” he said.
Mr Brown said that his candidacy is built on pillars of common sense and ‘back to basics’ strategies, mindful economics, providing value for money, solid decision-making and social unity, and bringing communities together to celebrate our interests and diversity.
‘Your Auckland’ launched
He believes that we need to get the foundations right first, in pursuance of which, he has launched an initiative called ‘Your Auckland.’
“It is time to make Auckland better and listening is the key first step. I want to know what Your Auckland looks like, or what you would like it to become. What do you admire about Your Auckland? What are the challenges ahead for Your Auckland? What is the future of Your Auckland? I intend to unite communities and be an open, trusted leader that goes to bat for all Aucklanders, regardless of demographics or geographical location. As one of the world’s great multicultural cities, I believe Auckland is built on inclusivity.
“My mission is to get out into our communities – something that I have done on the Hibiscus Coast and learn from our people. Rather than assume what needs to be done, find out the real issues affecting the quality of life for our people, while looking strategically at the bigger vision for our city,” Mr Brown said.
An active North Harbour referee for more than 30 years, he is now President of the North Harbour Referees Association and a former New Zealand Surf Life Saving Beach Flag Champion. Married to Tracey, the couple has five children, two of who are attending school.
An in-demand entertainer and the world’s only authorised Austin Powers impersonator from Warner Brothers and New Line Cinema, Mr Brown believes that he has a perfect blend of professional skills and community track record to lead the Auckland Council and unite people and bring back Auckland’s ‘mojo.’
Understanding challenges
“Having been a business owner for more than thirty years, I understand the challenges this entails and even more so, the challenges that our businesses have been facing over the last two years of the pandemic. Through unity, good leadership, an understanding of strong business acumen and my understanding of council processes, I know that I have all the skills required to step up and represent all Aucklanders,” Mr Brown said.
He does not label himself as left or right, declaring that he is “all for common sense,” saying that he is not a politician, but an advocate for communities.
“As a city, we need to make common-sense decisions and focus on being pro-business, pro-communities and pro-collaboration as we face today’s issues while forging an Auckland that future generations will appreciate and thank us for. It is not about what we do for our people right now but creating a better future for our children and our children’s children,” he said.
Promoting a better environment
Helping the environment is also an issue for Mr Brown. It starts by ensuring that his campaign is digital or direct face-to-face contact, with limited hoardings and if elected, he will embrace sustainability and lead a charge for an increase in renewable energy and better transport solutions.
“I am also big on improving and maintaining public assets so that our people can enjoy the beauty of our wonderful city. Transparency is important to me. Most Aucklanders have little understanding of what happens ‘behind the scenes,’ and hence my goal is to ensure that two-way communication is increased, ensuring that Aucklanders have a voice and are also instrumental in shaping their future,” Mr Brown said.
“Just like Auckland, we have to live within our means and be smarter about how we promote ourselves and achieve results. I am up for the challenge and dedicated to serving the city I love. If you don’t advocate for your community, who will? This is my Auckland. This is Your Auckland. I am Gary Brown. I am listening and I am ready to take action,” he said.
