July 23, 2026As Auckland Council’s consultation on its draft Local Board Plans closes today, South Auckland local board leaders say formal submission numbers tell only part of the story of community engagement. Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board chair Kaea Walter Inoke-Togiamua said the community’s response had been encouraging, even beyond the number of formal submissions. “I’m delighted to see South Auckland communities having their say on the draft Local Board Plans in this consultation round. Local Board Plans set the direction for local decision-making in local areas for the next three years. Local boards will consider public feedback before adopting their final Local Board Plans later this year.