I have served on the Howick Local Board since 2017.
I have won three elections, finishing in the top spot in the last two elections. Since then, I have continued to work hard for the local community.

​

I am also the CEE of a local youth development trust based in East Auckland, which helps to provide youth workers to Botany Downs Secondary College, Edgewater College, Howick College, and Pakuranga College. For 16 years, I have also continued as a youth mentor at Botany Downs Secondary, working directly with youth (weekly). I also serve on the Board of Trustees for a local secondary school.

​

I am originally from Alaska. However, I moved here as an immigrant in 2004. I am married to Jewel Turinsky and we have two sons (19 and 17). We are now citizens of New Zealand. I have watched Botany turn from paddocks to houses. I want to see this area flourish because it is in Botany (including Burswood, East Tāmaki, Flat Bush, and Ormiston) that our community is growing by leaps and bounds. If we are going to end the housing crisis in Auckland, Botany is one area new houses are being built. I want this new community to have what it needs to make it successful. 

​

Why run as an independent?

 

I stood (again) for the Howick Local Board as an independent because I genuinely believe we need less overt politics in local government. I have worked well with my fellow local board members, and I am confident I can work with any elected local board. But I feel that having a level of independence on the board means I can be loyal to our residents, not loyal to a political ticket. Therefore, I can support any good idea, no matter who comes up with it. I have found that not being aligned with a large political ticket helps get important stuff done. I can represent the community's best interests, not the interests of a political group.

 

I feel I have a solid record. I have only been on the board for 6 years but I have accomplished quite a bit during that time. I would be honoured if you would continue to vote for me and allow me to serve our

community in every election.