About Anna
Candidate Statement
I'm standing for re-election to continue my collaborative, positive approach to meeting our city's challenges and potential.
We are growing fast. We need practical, efficient, future-focused solutions. I believe in investing wisely. Good planning for growth and climate resilience is essential to keep our city affordable and liveable. This includes working closely with mana whenua, iwi and neighbouring councils.
Kirikiriroa should be a place where everyone feels at home. I'll keep pushing for affordable housing, safe streets, better public transport and reduced congestion. I will continue to advocate for cleaning up Lake Rotoroa and restoring our beautiful gullies. I believe in the importance of the arts and community centres that support creativity and connection.
I bring experience in research and governance, including a PhD in organisational studies and service on Trust Waikato. I am a mum of three and committed to a vibrant, healthy and inclusive city. voteannacaseycox.com
Candidate Profile Questions
1.What would be your top three priorities for Council the next three years?
1. Affordable, secure housing: I’ll continue to champion more diverse housing options and partnerships that enable affordable and accessible homes for all. The provision of land, and policy that requires affordability and DC remissions, are all within Council’s wheelhouse, and we must continue to do our bit.
2. Community wellbeing and participation: Investing in spaces and services that strengthen belonging and inclusion—libraries, pools, events, youth engagement, and community centres.
3. Climate action and resilient infrastructure: Ensuring Council decisions align with our climate commitments and support a just transition to a low-emissions future, while at the same time preparing and planning for a changed climate.
2. What is your aspiration for Hamilton Kirikiriroa?
My aspiration is for a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable Kirikiriroa where everyone feels a sense of belonging and where we invest in the wellbeing of both people and planet. I believe we can be progressive leaders with respect to urban planning for an even more liveable, clean, and vibrant City.
3. How do you think Council could best use opportunities to meet the key challenges we are facing?
Like many councils around Aotearoa, we face financial challenges. We can meet these challenges by working together—across communities and with mana whenua, iwi and neighbouring councils. Strategic partnerships can unlock investment opportunities. The new CCO, IAWAI, is a good example - offering financial flexibility, efficiency and shared expertise. Wise investment and cost-sharing across generations will help keep our city affordable for all. We also need to lift project efficiency, especially with external contractors.
That said, improved finances can’t come at the cost of essential services or future preparedness. We must explore cost effective solutions to improve our climate resiliency (e.g. nature-based solutions). We need to work with central government, philanthropy, and local services to address homelessness. We can reduce emissions, and relieve congestion, by improving alternative transport options at minimal cost. We must ensure that existing community spaces are fully utilised to bring vibrancy and connection to the City.
4. If there was one thing you could change about Hamilton Kirikiriroa immediately, what would it be?
If I could change one thing immediately, it would be the provision of warm, dry, affordable places to call home for all. Secure housing is the foundation for wellbeing, and too many in our city are struggling without it.
5. What qualities would you bring to Council that will help our city thrive?
I bring integrity, empathy, and a collaborative leadership style. I’m a good analytical thinker who is able to get my head around the complexities of Council while, of course, also listening to the expertise of staff and community. I value grounded, community-led solutions, informed by the voices of those most affected. I don’t shy away from hard conversations, and I always bring a lens of equity and care to decision-making.
6. Where can voters go to learn more about you?
Website: www.voteannacaseycox.com
Social media:
https://www.facebook.com/AnnaCaseyCoxforHCCEast
instagram @annacaseycox4hcc
Content supplied by candidate.