Tāmaki Makaurau Mayor Wayne Brown has endorsed Auckland Council’s demographic advisory panels for another three-year term, validating an important aspect of the council’s governance structure through to September 2028.
The search now begins to find new panel members from across Tāmaki Makaurau who can provide a range of varied views to the council.
Each of the six following advisory panels includes up to 12 members:
• Disability Advisory Panel
• Ethnic Communities Advisory Panel
• Pacific Peoples Advisory Panel
• Rainbow Communities Advisory Panel
• Seniors Advisory Panel
• Youth Advisory Panel.
New and returning panel members will be recruited over the next few months for their lived experience within specific communities and the feedback they can provide to elected members and staff that will help embed diverse perspectives into council strategies, plans, and key initiatives.
Mayor Brown says being able to access panel feedback for another term will continue to build a more inclusive city where everyone feels they belong.
“We’ve gained invaluable input in the past from panel members. It’s often enlightening and I’m keen to see what the next term will bring,” says Mayor Brown.
Newly appointed Chief Liaison Councillor for Advisory Panels, Sarah Paterson-Hamlin strongly encourages people from all backgrounds to get in touch.
“It’s so important for our mahi at the council that we hear from Aucklanders with lived experiences that might otherwise go unheard. Even the most diligent representative in the world can’t truly know what it’s like to navigate our city from someone else’s perspective,” says Cr Paterson-Hamlin.
“The only thing you need to be an expert in to apply for an advisory panel is your own experience. So, kick that imposter syndrome to the curb - Nau mai, haere mai!”
Past panel co-chair Josh Martin says he’s loved being part of the Rainbow Communities Advisory Panel and advising the mayor, councillors, and council staff on issues that affect his community.
“It’s been a privilege to share insights, ideas, and the realities of our daily life in this city on behalf of our rainbow whānau.
“If you’ve ever wanted to help shape what Tāmaki Makaurau looks like for rainbow people, this is your chance,” says Mr Martin.
Youth Advisory Panel member in the previous term, Esther O'Donnell, says being a panel member is a great chance to connect with some of the most energetic advocates in Tāmaki Makaurau, and bring your unique voice to council discussions.
“You don’t have to be the most experienced person in the room or the most outspoken, but I would encourage anyone who is passionate about their communities and making a difference to put their name forward,” she says.
Panel members will be appointed until early September 2028, with meetings up to 10 times a year, cross panel workshops with all six panels, and additional time required in preparation.
More information, including the specific criteria and an online application form can be found on the Auckland Council website. Applications will be accepted through to Sunday 7 December.
Contact advisorypanels@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz with any questions.
Seniors Advisory Panel members from 2022-25 are (from left) Susanne Tapsell, Janis McArdle and Zari Fazelnia.
