Two days of intense debate and tough decisions brought Auckland Council’s 2022-2025 Governing Body term to a close, ending with the valedictory speeches of three councillors standing down after nearly 70 years of service between them. This is part one in our series of tributes - Councillor Angela Dalton.
Mayor Wayne Brown acknowledged the work of the Governing Body and paid special tribute to the three departing councillors.
“The role of councillor can be both demanding and thankless. This term alone the Governing Body has spent more than 375 hours in meetings and workshops, with mountains of paper to wade through.
“Yet it can be a richly rewarding experience. I respect anyone who is willing to put their hand up and serve,” said the Mayor.
An advocate for South Auckland
“Angela Dalton has made an outstanding contribution to the quality of decision-making around the council table by championing inclusive leadership and stronger relationships with Māori.
“She has been a strong advocate for South Auckland.
“As deputy chair of the Policy and Planning Committee, she played a key role in advocating for stronger planning rules to manage flood risk, as well as serving as lead councillor for Eke Panuku’s urban redevelopment goals,” Mayor Brown said.
The privilege of a lifetime
After 18 years serving her community, Councillor Angela Dalton is stepping down, summing up her time in local government as the privilege of a lifetime.
“I stepped into the world of local government with a simple but powerful intention: to serve. To serve communities often unheard. To bring lived experience into rooms where decisions are made. And to help shape a council that reflects the people it represents — in all their diversity, strength, and potential,” she said.
After a term on Manukau City Council’s Manurewa Community Board, Angela was elected to the Manurewa Local Board where she later served as chair. She was elected to the council’s Governing Body in 2019.
Manurewa Local Board Chair Angela Dalton in 2013
“I believed then — as I still do now — that inclusive leadership is not just an ideal, it’s a necessity. I also spoke [then] of my intention to be pragmatic, curious, occasionally disruptive — but not destructive. I’d like to think I’ve stayed true to that promise,” she said.
Cr Dalton spoke of the importance of asking the right questions when making decisions and policy, so as not to create unintended consequences for communities; that good governance starts with listening to the people they serve; championing local boards as true partners in shared decision-making and that Māori communities deserve not just engagement, but real influence.
“Communities in the south are just as entitled to investment, dignity, and opportunity as any other part of Auckland.
“And I have always believed that women — especially women with lived experience — must have a seat at the table, not to replace men, but to stand shoulder to shoulder, bringing balance, insight, and a different kind of strength,” she said.
Cr Dalton thanked the people of Manurewa and Papakura for their trust, honesty and unwavering belief that local government can be a force for good. She acknowledged the shared efforts, the respectful debates, and the moments of laughter along the way with her fellow elected members and the advice and professionalism of council staff.
“If we are to have an Auckland that is truly inclusive, that starts right here — with leadership that is inclusive. We are, and we always will be, stronger together. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa.”
Councillor Richard Hills acknowledged his colleague’s support as deputy chair of the Policy and Planning Committee which, at an epic meeting less than 24 hours earlier, made its biggest planning decision of the term.
“Angela, I have so appreciated having you as deputy chair of this committee. Your integrity and the work you do – I’m going to miss you so much,” said Cr Hills.
Recovering from surgery, Cr Angela Dalton gives her valedictory speech to the final Governing Body meeting of the term online
Great communities start with listening and understanding
Cr Dalton took on the role of chair when the Community Committee was established in September 2024.
With a focus on regional strategy for arts, culture and events; the regional grants programme; sports and recreation, community facilities and services; and working with community partners, the new chair at the time said there has never been a more important time to focus on community.
“It is our strong social connections that keep us moving forward through the tough times and able to navigate the ups and downs a bit easier,” said Cr Dalton. "Great communities start with listening and understanding."
At her final committee meeting on 23 September 2025, members acknowledged her advocacy and leadership, and her championing of many of the items presented over the past year. Cr Dalton in turn thanked staff who presented reports and outlined the value of this work.
“We have achieved a lot in just one year and this work must continue.
“The Community Committee has allowed many voices to be heard that had previously been silent,” Cr Dalton said. “Volunteering is just one example – we have some great data on the savings that volunteering delivers and why we should continue supporting volunteers.”
Watch the valedictory speeches at the last meeting of the Governing Body for the 2022-2025 term here.
