Being an elected member

Being an elected trustee of the West Auckland Trusts – whether on the Portage or Waitākere Licensing Trust – is both a privilege and a serious responsibility. Trustees are elected to govern and safeguard community assets that span retail liquor operations, hospitality venues, and substantial property holdings. The Trusts also play a key role in giving back to the local community through charitable grants and sponsorships.Trustees must balance commercial decision-making with a commitment to social good.

Once elected, trustees are expected to participate in two regular meetings each month, along with occasional workshops and special meetings as needed. These meetings are where the Trust’s core business is reviewed – agenda items typically cover commercial performance, strategic investments, health and safety, financial reports, and community support initiatives. Trustees are required to come prepared, having read through board papers and other pre-reading materials ahead of time.

Workshops may be scheduled periodically to focus on strategic planning or key operational initiatives that require more in-depth thinking outside of the regular meeting structure. These sessions are an opportunity to contribute to the long-term vision of the Trust and help shape future direction.

Meetings are conducted in a respectful and collegial environment, with trustees working together collaboratively despite often having different views and backgrounds. It’s a constructive and rewarding space to engage in public service.

Being a trustee offers a unique opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the West Auckland community, as well as learn about the complexities of managing a commercial enterprise with a social
mission. Trustees are frequently called upon to make important decisions about investments, commercial partnerships, and community funding – all with the goal of ensuring long-term sustainability and positive outcomes for the region.

In essence, becoming a trustee means taking on a governance role with real impact. You’ll gain insights into retail and hospitality business operations, participate in meaningful community-focused initiatives, and play a direct role in shaping the future of an important local institution. You are paid a consideration for your time – PLT trustees earn $13,000 per annum, and Waitākere trustees $14,000. Meetings are generally 2-3 hours, and in the late afternoon/evening.

As an elected trustee representing WALTAG, obviously you’d be expected to be an advocate for why the community elected you – your principles, and the purpose of WALTAG. Our elected members to date have been advocating on these topics from a minority point of view on each board, building rapport and consensus wherever possible – we’re hoping we can change that this election.