Gerald Lopez for Kaipatiki Local Board!

 I’m running to build complete communities in Kaipatiki – where families can walk to quality businesses, young people find local jobs, and development makes our neighborhoods better, not just bigger.

Kaipatiki has everything it needs to be one of Auckland’s success stories. What we need is fresh perspective that turns potential into reality.

A voice for thoughtful growth

I’m running for Kaipatiki Local Board because our community deserves development that enhances our neighborhoods, not just fills them up. After living in beautiful cities from London to Singapore, I know what makes places truly livable—and I can see Kaipatiki’s incredible untapped potential.

My overseas friends are envious of the lifestyle we enjoy here. Now it’s time to make it even better.

What I stand for

Smart development that works for families
No more developments that create chaos for existing residents. I’ll ensure new builds include proper parking, green spaces, and the shops and services families actually need nearby. Development isn’t the enemy—poor development is.

Vibrant town centers that compete
Our business districts should rival Takapuna and Devonport. I’ll expand Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to all our centres, creating destination shopping areas where people want to linger and spend locally, not drive elsewhere.

Real jobs for young people
Every young person in Kaipatiki should have a pathway from education to meaningful local employment. I’ll work to create 500 new youth employment opportunities within three years—keeping our talent local.

Beaches that welcome families
Our coastline is one of Kaipatiki’s greatest assets. Clean facilities, safe access, and spaces where kids can play while parents relax—that’s what our beaches should offer every family.

Why I’m different

I may not know every planning rule yet, but I know what good community spaces feel like. My Bachelor of Laws degree gives me the background to read complex legislation and advocate effectively. My marketing and communications career gives me the skills to create clearer consultation and collaboration between the Board and residents. My international experience helps me recognise opportunities that local perspective alone might miss.

I’m not promising to personally fix every problem—that would be dishonest. I’m promising to use every tool local boards have effectively: strategic use of our $21 million budget, smart advocacy to Auckland Transport, and working with community organisations to leverage our influence.

Ready to listen and learn

I’m running because I want to bring fresh perspectives to the local board. I may not have all the answers yet, but I’m committed to listening and learning from residents like you. Sometimes outside perspective identifies solutions that experience might overlook.

The question I’ll always ask: does this make our community better?

Kaipatiki has great location, diverse communities, established businesses, and beautiful environment. What we need is realistic optimism backed by understanding how local boards actually work. That’s exactly what I’m offering.

Let’s build the complete community Kaipatiki deserves.