Local Democracy ReportingFirst Pasifika councillor on her struggles, pride and facing racismAt 95, Namulau’ulu Tala Cleverley reflects on her journey from Sāmoa to council, breaking barriers and highlighting the importance of representation.Mary AfemataTue, 07 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingPacific candidates clash and converge on future of South AucklandIn a key live debate hosted by 531pi, six Pacific candidates vying for Auckland Council tackle pressing issues amid calls for Pasifika to vote.Mary AfemataFri, 03 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingPasifika candidate wants to light up the 'dark side' of HuntlyLafoaluga Elizabeth Sakaria hopes to bring Pacific values and everyday safety priorities into local decision-making in the small Waikato town.Mary AfemataFri, 03 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingPacific voice steps up in Christchurch ward with lowest voter turnoutFionna Chapman is vying for a Burwood council seat, bringing Pacific representation grounded in family, community and lived experience.Mary AfemataThu, 02 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingManurewa election complaints prompt warning on vote integrity concernsThe electoral officer is cautioning voters about secrecy rules, ballot handling, and the risk of crossing from legitimate help into undue influence.Mary AfemataMon, 29 Sep
Local Democracy ReportingSouth Auckland leader: This daylight saving weekend a reminder to get emergency readyHouseholds are being urged to check supplies, make a plan, and talk with whānau about what to do if disaster strikes.Mary AfemataFri, 26 Sep
Local Democracy ReportingSouth Auckland urged to ‘prove everyone wrong’ as voter turnout trails previous elections Just 1.3 per cent of Manurewa voters returned papers, compared with nearly nine per cent in Warkworth, as Pacific leaders warn low turnout could silence their voices for years.Mary AfemataThu, 25 Sep
Local Democracy ReportingCandidate: Low turnout in mayoral election ‘silences Pacific voices’ Ted Johnston, whose grandfather held the Sāmoan family name Faleauto, says Pacific communities deserve better representation and must vote.Mary AfemataWed, 24 Sep
Local Democracy ReportingSāmoan tenor takes spotlight in NZO debutIpu Laga’aia impresses in The Monster in the Maze production.Mary AfemataFri, 19 Sep
Local Democracy ReportingFour new homes open in Māngere, but almost 900 families waitingA Pacific-led trust is helping families into ownership, but councillor Lotu Fuli says central government must do more to fix South Auckland’s housing crisis.Mary AfemataFri, 19 Sep
