Sarah Kavanagh

Sarah Kavanagh is running for Communities and Residents (Howick Local Board, Pakuranga subdivision), alongside Olympic gold medallist Bruce Kendall MBE and community youth advocate Jack Collins.

A passionate and action-focused local, I bring a unique blend of business leadership and Board governance, alongside grassroots community connection. With over 20 years of experience in sales, marketing, and business consultancy, I am committed to using my expertise to support Pakuranga’s growth and success.

I am best known locally as the co-founder of the Shop Local, Shop Howick Facebook group – an initiative born during the Covid-19 lockdowns to help local businesses stay afloat. What started as a community lifeline has since grown into one of East Auckland’s most trusted digital platforms, with over 12,000 members regularly using it to promote local businesses and share recommendations.

Currently serving on the Board of Trustees at Shelly Park School, I hold the Community Liaison role, helping strengthen relationships between families, school leadership, and the wider community. I also previously served on the Board of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), working alongside New Zealand’s largest media platforms, and was recognised with a Foundation Award for her service to the industry.

For over 2 decades, I have dedicated time to volunteering. Most recently this has included being an active member of the Shelly Park School PTA, sitting on the Board of Trustees, managing football teams at Bucklands Beach AFC and previously serving on the committee for Howick Rhythmic Gymnastics Club. I am passionate about helping young people thrive through sport.

Before moving to NZ in 2010, I spent 5 years volunteering with HCPT, a children’s charity that supports young people with a range of complex special needs. This volunteer work involved providing a week-long holiday for the children and their siblings, offering their families valuable respite care.

With a proven track record of community leadership, governance and a relentless drive to make a difference, I have seen first hand what can be achieved when the community comes together. I am passionate about joining the Howick Local Board and continuing to serve the community.