Ciara Swords | Whangārei

Ciara Swords | Whangārei

I am a first-generation Kiwi, born in the UAE and relocated to New Zealand at the age of five with my Filipino mother and Irish father. They decided to move to the beautiful town of One Tree Point in the Whangārei district for a better life. I had a fantastic childhood, but even from a young age I was aware of the inequality that existed around me.

During my study in Economics at the University of Otago, I learnt about the ingrained issue with New Zealand’s tax system that the main parties either refused or were unable to solve - the property tax loophole which incentivises investment in property and not in businesses that could provide jobs and boost the economy in a real way.

I am deeply interested in how we bring about a better society for all Kiwis, so I am currently studying Public Policy through Victoria University of Wellington as a postgraduate student. This education allows me to analyse the issues facing New Zealand from a more informed position. I believe that we can create economic prosperity for Kiwi businesses and those struggling to make ends meet. I will bring this vision to the Whangārei electorate where people struggle with limited opportunities.

TOP’s policies give me hope - that we can solve the housing and climate crisis, reduce education inequality, and stop treating cannabis users as criminals. We can do all of this in a way that creates economic growth. Hope - but with our sleeves rolled up.