Josephine Bartley

Auckland Council welcomes newest Pasifika member

Josephine Bartley was officially sworn in Thursday as the councillor for the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki ward.

In her maiden speech Councillor Bartley spoke on the importance of the community, environment and supporting young people and the council’s role in helping communities to "do well, live well and be well".

Mayor Phil Goff welcomed Councillor Bartley and congratulated her in becoming the newest member of Auckland Council highlighting her community work and heritage.

First Samoan woman elected to Auckland Council

The 45-year-old Samoan won the by-election over the weekend, after the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki seat was vacated by the now MP Denise Lee.

Preliminary results show Bartley on 7211, beating the only other candidate Josh Beddell on 5637 votes.

Bartley will be sworn in as councillor for Maungakiekie-Tāmaki on Thursday and says she has a few priorities in sight.