- Louise Johnston served three terms (nine years) on the Rodney Local Board, championing parks, public transport, and environmental initiatives.
- Michelle Carmichael served one term, advocating for the environment, transparency and community engagement, including opening local board workshops to the public.
- Both are stepping down, leaving a lasting impact on Rodney’s community and environment.
After years of dedicated service, Rodney Local Board members Louise Johnston and Michelle Carmichael are stepping down, leaving behind a legacy of strong community advocacy and environmental stewardship.
Louise, who served three terms, has been a consistent voice for parks and transport, while Michelle, serving one term, championed openness and community involvement.
A vision for Green Road Park
One of Louise Johnston’s proudest ongoing projects is the development of Green Road Park. Although the land was bought by the former Rodney District Council before Louise joined the local board, she has played a key role in shaping the park’s masterplan and long-term vision.
She hopes Green Road will become ‘the Cornwall Park of Rodney’, a vibrant recreational space for families, walkers, cyclists, and horse riders.
While much work remains, Louise has been hands-on, supporting community planting days and helping open the park to the public. She is passionate about transforming this space into a welcoming green heart for Rodney residents.
Championing Transport and Infrastructure
Louise’s contributions extend beyond parks. She has been a strong advocate for improving public transport in Rodney, playing a crucial role in bringing back the bus service to Dairy Flat, the 986 bus route, restoring vital links for rural residents to access services and employment.
In her current term, Louise has served as Deputy Chairperson of the Rodney Local Board and led efforts on resource consents, planning and waste issues. She also sits on the Redvale landfill community liaison group and the Auckland Council Waste Political Advisory Group.
Advancing Transparency and Engagement
Michelle Carmichael, serving one term, worked with Louise on resource consents and has been a strong voice for the environment, transparency and community engagement. She set up regular in-person catch-ups with local groups in Warkworth to ensure community voices were heard.
She also successfully moved a notice of motion to open Rodney Local Board workshops to the public, giving people greater insight and opportunity to engage with local decision-making.
Michelle sits on the Kaipara Moana Remediation Governance Partnership Joint Committee, supporting environmental restoration projects in the region.
A legacy of community commitment
Together, Louise and Michelle have helped make the Rodney Local Board more connected and responsive to its communities. Despite the challenges of rapid population growth, budget pressures, and complex regulations, both remain hopeful for Rodney’s future.
Local Board Chairperson Brent Bailey praises their contributions, “Louise has been a reliable and passionate leader for Rodney. Her commitment to creating spaces where our community can connect and thrive is something we’re incredibly grateful for.
“Michelle’s dedication to the environment, transparency and ensuring the community’s voice is heard has made a real difference in Rodney.
“They have both been very strong voices and always stood up for what was important. They leave a strong foundation for the next local board to build on. They’ll be missed by the local board and the wider community alike.”
As they step down, Louise and Michelle leave behind a strong foundation for the local board’s future work, building community, protecting the environment, and championing the unique character of Rodney.
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