William Goldberg
Mellons Bay resident William Goldberg is standing for the Howick Subdivision Local Board in this year’s Auckland Council election for the ACT Party.
William has lived in the area for many years with his partner and children, who attend Bucklands Beach Intermediate and Macleans College. A business owner and IT professional, he is also Chief Growth Officer at Octovox, helping New Zealand companies harness the power of AI to cut costs and boost productivity, an approach he hopes to bring to the Local Board by finding smarter, more efficient ways to deliver services for ratepayers.
He says his decision to run came from frustration at rising rates, wasteful spending, and a lack of focus on essentials. “When the Council’s rates survey came out, it felt like we had no real choice, just which rate increase we wanted to accept. There was no plan to cut red tape or eliminate waste,” he says.
While local boards can’t set rates, William says they can be a strong voice for residents. He wants to use his AI and business background to push for smarter spending, better transport decisions, and local policies that are practical and transparent.
His priorities include advocating to cut wasteful spending, pressing Auckland Transport to review bus-only corridors, opposing race-based decision-making in local politics, and working with police and community groups on technology-driven crime prevention.
“I want to make sure Howick’s voice is heard loud and clear, and that we get real results for the money we put in,” he says.
Brief intro:
I bring hands-on experience in technology, innovation, and business growth. As co-founder of a NZ AI startup and head of a sales and tech consultancy, I help local businesses adopt new tools and thrive. My background includes senior roles at Cisco, Spark, and BroadSoft, delivering global tech solutions with local impact. I’m passionate about using technology to support our community’s success.
Why am I running:
Frustrated by Auckland Council’s rate hikes, wasteful spending, war on cars, and costly climate policies, I knew it was time to act. The so-called “choice” survey offered only more rates, with no plan to cut red tape or reduce wasteful spending. I’m running for the Howick Local Board to bring common sense, apply my tech expertise, and help make Howick the best place to live.
My key priorities:
• Cut waste: Use AI and big data to scrutinise projects, boost efficiency, and gather feedback.
• End the war on cars and advocate for better road planning: Convert all busways, including Panmure Highway, Panmure Highway Bridge, and soon to be built Ti Rakau Drive, to T2 lanes
• Keep politics fair: Oppose co-governance, unelected seats, and focus on law and order with AI-driven crime prevention.
Authorised by
William Goldberg | ACT Local
for Howick Subdivision
Howick Local Board