Kia ora, I’m Sarah Paterson-Hamlin, and I’m standing for Council because I believe in local government that invests in its people. I live, work, and raise my children in Whau, where they attend a local school in a Te Reo Māori bilingual pathway. I’ve spent ten years in leadership roles across disability and community sectors and it’s taught me how to listen, problem-solve, and deliver when budgets are tight. As a Whau Local Board member, I’ve worked to establish accessible public spaces, environmental protections, progressing Te Hono and the Whau Pool, safer roads for all users, and stronger relationships with community organisations. I will build on this work as your Ward Councillor and ensure our neighbourhoods thrive with reliable public transport, cleaner waterways, adequate green space, and improved infrastructure. I have a strong work ethic and will be a compassionate, determined voice for all our community at the Council table.