Raymond Tan

I am 59 years old of Chinese descent, born and grew up in Singapore. I have lived in Aotearoa New Zealand for over 34 years, having worked in Rotorua and Wellington before settling down in Tōtara Vale, Kaipātiki in 1997.  

With my wife Patricia, we raised three boys, Benjamin, Benett and Benedict who schooled at Target Road Primary, Murrays Bay Intermediate, Westlake Boys High School before completing their university studies. Now, with an empty nest, Boston (12-year-old Pomeranian-Tibetan Spaniel cross) makes sure we do our daily walks and exercises.

I am Chartered Director (IOD) and a Chartered Governance Professional (FCGNZ) and holds a PhD, Henley MBA, an Honours degree, several postgraduate and professional qualifications in finance, governance and asset management. 

I have over 30 years of governance experience that includes being a member of the Kaipātiki Local Board, NZ Occupational Therapy Board, The Trusts Arena, NZ Choral Federation, NZ Children’s Choir Academy, NZ Chinese Association Auckland Committee and previously, Chair of Target Road Primary Board of Trustees and Glenfield Community Centre.

Like many Asians and new migrants, I have been told to return to my home country even though I have lived here for a long time. It would take more than just a Chinese Language Week to resolve these systemic issues.  Acceptance of Asian diaspora communities is more than just organising festivals, going to Asian restaurants/takeaways or cooking Asian meals occasionally, it is about enabling the diversity of thought and values at the discussion and decision-making table.  I would like to create a pathway and voice for future generations and ethnic leaders that will better reflect a multicultural society with nearly 50% of the Auckland population not born in New Zealand. Currently, there are only 5 Asian representatives of the 172 positions available for Mayor (1), Ward Councillors (20), Local Board Members (151).

If elected, I hope to create a unique Kaipātiki Identity where People feel safer and more connected when their different identities and cultures are acknowledged and valued. This perception combats isolation, prejudice, and “us vs them” mentalities or social fractures that undermine community stability.  People who feel that belong are happier and healthier. I aim to reduce communication and language barriers that prevent participation of many Kaipātiki residents with limited understanding of the English language, or have adequate digital or computer skills.  

Strong social bonds and a sense of collective responsibility can deter crime. When neighbours know and look out for each other, they’re more likely to notice and report suspicious activity. Cohesive communities are better equipped to respond to crises—whether it’s a natural disaster or a public health emergency as they support each other, share resources, and find solutions collectively through trust across groups and inclusive networks which physical facilities alone cannot deliver. 

Guided by different professional codes of practice, I believe in ethical decision making based on facts and figures that are balanced with cultural and emotional intelligence. These decisions must be made with appropriate personal integrity and professional credibility. 

If elected I will ensure engagement processes reflect genuine power-sharing or co-design and not tokenistic consultation.  Embedding kaitiakitanga and equity in governance means representation isn’t just symbolic, it’s structural and all encompassing. 

I believe communities known for being welcoming and diverse, and cohesive are more attractive places to live, work, study and invest in the long term. This new Kaipātiki Identity is a foundation I hope to use for creating the new Kaipātiki Economy that fosters innovation and economic vitality. Can you imagine Wairau Valley as the new “Wairau Silicon Valley” recognised for high concentration of tech companies, vibrant startups, great training facilities to support a strong technology and engineering sectors that instead of large second had car yards. I believe, and confident if given the chance, there are opportunities to harness the talents, ideas and experiences of our new migrant and diverse communities to be involved in creative problem-solving and transfer economic innovation from other countries.    Together, new migrants and ethnic communities can make New Zealand a better place to live that will protect the environment, embrace Tikanga Māori and Treaty Principles.