Asian Candidates Compete for Auckland Council Seats Amid Growing Representation

As Auckland’s demographic landscape evolves, the upcoming council elections see a notable increase in Asian representation. With over 518,000 individuals of Asian descent living in Auckland, approximately ten candidates from this community are seeking council seats. This trend reflects a significant rise from the 307,230 Asian voters recorded in 2013, growing to 442,674 in 2018, and the current total of 518,178 as per the 2023 Census.

The Asian community now comprises 17.3 percent of New Zealand’s population, totaling 861,576 individuals. The Howick local board leads in Asian representation, with 80,565 residents, followed by Henderson-Massey with 39,546 and Upper Harbour with 34,983.

Notable Candidates in the Race

Among the prominent candidates is Eric Chuah, a Malaysian Chinese resident running against incumbent Wayne Brown for the mayoral position while also contesting for a council seat in the North Shore Ward.

Peter Chan, who has served as a councillor since 2004, is seeking re-election for the Waitākere Ward. Chan has a rich history of community involvement, having co-founded the Waitākere Ethnic Board and the Lantern Festival. His platform focuses on improving public transport, enhancing youth programs, and increasing funding for climate preparedness initiatives.

In the Howick Ward, Ali Dahche represents the ACT Party, emphasizing accountability and efficiency. Dahche, who moved to East Auckland in 1998, aims to prioritize essential services over “vanity projects.” His campaign promises include improving local infrastructure and supporting businesses by reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

Sunil Kaushal, also contesting the Waitākere Ward, arrived in New Zealand as an international student 30 years ago. He has been active in local advocacy and aims to secure better funding for services that meet local needs. Kaushal’s campaign focuses on enhancing transport facilities and improving community safety.

Another candidate, Kay Luv, describes herself as a “proud Laotian Westie mum” with over 20 years of experience in immigration. Luv is dedicated to creating a safer and more inclusive Auckland, emphasizing the need for better transport and health services while advocating for increased police presence.

In the Whau Ward, Anjana Subramaniam Iyer, who moved from Mumbai in 2011, is campaigning for the Green Party. Iyer highlights the urgent need for addressing the cost-of-living and housing challenges facing many communities.

Paul Sun, contesting the Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward, has two decades of experience in real estate. He aims to bring rational leadership to the council, focusing on core services rather than symbolic projects.

Lastly, Paul Young, who migrated from Taiwan at the age of 25, previously served as an Auckland councillor. Young seeks to re-enter the council to further his initiatives, including fairer representation for ethnic minorities and investment in community projects.

The Impact of Increasing Asian Representation

The growing number of Asian candidates reflects a broader trend of increasing diversity within Auckland’s political landscape. As candidates campaign on issues that resonate with their communities, they bring unique perspectives that can influence local governance. The focus on infrastructure, safety, and community services highlights the priorities of a rapidly growing demographic.

With Auckland’s elections approaching, the outcomes will not only determine the future of local governance but also set the stage for how effectively these candidates can represent the interests of their constituents. The participation of Asian candidates marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and representative council, reflecting the multicultural fabric of New Zealand’s largest city.