One of New Zealand’s longest serving openly gay politicians is stepping down from his role next month and says after nine years, he is proud to have worked towards making the work of Auckland Council more inclusive. Retiring Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board Chair Simon Randall will not be seeking re-election this October and while he has no firm plans for the future, he is keen to apply his “skills and experience to other roles in the public or NGO sectors”. Noting that it is hard to pick just one thing he is proud of during his time on the Board, Randall says “Over all though, I am proudest of the work I have done to make what the council does more inclusive and responsive to the needs and wants of an increasingly diverse Auckland.” Excited about the future of Auckland, he says “There are things that always can be better, but moving on has given me the chance to step back and see the progress made. “Nine years on since I was elected, and 15 since I first stood, Auckland is a much more vibrant and inclusive city. I am sure that progress will continue in this direction.” Randall’s last day as Chair of the Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board is October 9.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 9th September 2016 - 11:51am