Sarah Kavanagh Aims for Howick Local Board with Community Focus

Sarah Kavanagh is running for a position on the Howick Local Board in the upcoming local elections, representing the Communities and Residents (C&R) party. Kavanagh is joined by notable figures, including Olympic gold medallist Bruce Kendall and community youth advocate Jack Collins, as they aim to address local issues and enhance community engagement.

Kavanagh brings a wealth of experience to her candidacy, combining over 20 years in sales, marketing, and business consultancy with a strong commitment to the local community. Her leadership skills and governance experience are complemented by her grassroots involvement, making her a well-rounded candidate for the Pakuranga subdivision of Howick.

One of her significant contributions to the community is the co-founding of the ‘Shop Local, Shop Howick’ Facebook group, which emerged during the Covid-19 lockdowns. This initiative has transformed into one of east Auckland’s most influential digital platforms, boasting over 12,000 members who actively support local businesses and share recommendations.

Kavanagh currently serves on the board of trustees at Shelly Park School, where she acts as the community liaison. In this role, she fosters connections between families, school leadership, and the broader community. Her previous experience includes a position on the board of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), where she collaborated with some of New Zealand’s largest media platforms. She was honoured with a Foundation Award for her exceptional service to the industry.

Her commitment to community service extends to various volunteer roles over the past two decades. Kavanagh has been actively involved with the Shelly Park School PTA, managed football teams at the Bucklands Beach Association Football Club, and contributed to the committee at Howick Rhythmic Gymnastics Club. She is particularly passionate about youth development through sport.

Before relocating to New Zealand in 2010, Kavanagh dedicated five years to volunteering with HCPT, a charity supporting children with complex special needs. This work provided an invaluable week-long holiday for these children and their families, ensuring they received much-needed respite care.

Kavanagh’s extensive history of community leadership and her drive to effect positive change demonstrate her commitment to the role she seeks on the Howick Local Board. Her vision for the future includes fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within the community to tackle challenges and enhance the quality of life for residents.

As the election date approaches, Kavanagh remains focused on her mission to serve the community, drawing on her diverse experiences and unwavering dedication to local issues. With a strong foundation in both professional and community settings, she is prepared to make a meaningful impact on the Howick Local Board.