Experienced outspoken councillor, former merchant navy officer, former ARC chairman (2004-2010), led major regional parks expansion, led electrification and renaissance of Auckland rail, opened Queens Wharf to the public. Standing at the request of residents concerned at council decision-making (eg helipads, Western Springs etc), lack of accountability and growing debt. Mike consistently voted against rate rises, now totalling $3 billion. Opposed council's sale of Downtown Carpark building and Auckland Airport shares and helped stop the long-term lease of Auckland's port to foreign interests. He is leading a campaign to prohibit helipads from residential areas and opposes AT's blockade of Queen Street to private vehicles. Headed St James Theatre restoration working party. A passionate Hauraki Gulf conservationist Mike is leading a marine reserve application off Waiheke which attracted 93% support of public submissions, 'A councilor's primary role is to represent the public to the council - not the other way round.'