Wayne Brown Eyes Re-election, Targets Councillors in High-Stakes Auckland Race

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown is preparing for a tough re-election battle this October, with his sights set not only on retaining his position but also on unseating several councillors who have opposed his key policies during his first term. As the local body elections approach, Brown has strategically bolstered his Fix Auckland ticket by fielding strong candidates in the Albany and Manukau wards—both held by councillors who have repeatedly clashed with him on major issues.

With nominations for the October 11 elections closing yesterday, a total of 476 candidates have thrown their hats into the ring for 172 positions across the council, including mayoral, council, and local board roles. The number of mayoral candidates has dropped significantly from 23 in 2022 to just 12 this year, signaling a more concentrated race.

Brown’s main challenge comes from first-term councillor Kerrin Leoni, who is running for the mayoralty. However, his focus is equally on securing a strong majority in the 21-member council. This ambition has led to the inclusion of prominent figures such as Victoria Short and Gary Brown, both members of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, who are vying for the two council seats in the Albany ward.

Brown has not held back in his criticism of the current Albany and Manukau councillors, whom he has privately dubbed the “Albanians.” He has also expressed frustration with the Manukau councillors, Lotu Fuli and Alf Filipaina, who have consistently opposed his initiatives.

Among the Fix Auckland candidates for these wards are Luke Mealamu, brother of former All Black Keven Mealamu, and Vicky Hau, who currently manages the Māngere Town Centre. Mealamu, who owns a large security firm, and Hau bring a mix of business experience and local leadership to the race.

John Watson and Wayne Walker, the sitting Albany councillors, have defended their positions, stating that they have always worked hard to earn the trust of their constituents. They have also expressed confidence in their ability to compete against Brown’s candidates, calling it a “healthy situation” that will only strengthen their campaign.

Meanwhile, Lotu Fuli of Manukau has openly acknowledged that she believes Brown is targeting her and Alf Filipaina, citing her efforts to save Auckland Airport shares for the people of Manukau as a reason for the mayor’s focus on their seats.

The mayoral race is shaping up to be a tightly contested affair, with a diverse field of candidates including John Alcock, Eric Chuah, Michael Coote (Independent), Ted Johnston (Independent), Denise Widdison (Independent), Rob McNeil (Animal Justice Party Aotearoa NZ), and others.

One notable entrant is former National MP Jami-Lee Ross, who is running in the Howick Local Board. Ross, who left the National Party in 2018 and faced serious allegations of bullying and sexual harassment, claims she is ready to return to politics and serve the community with her experience and insight.

With the race heating up, and the final list of candidates expected to be released on Monday after the Electoral Officer’s review, the stakes have never been higher for Brown and his opponents. The outcome of this election could reshape the future of Auckland for years to come.