We’ve provided a set of questions for the mayoral and councillor candidates to answer. First 25 words to an answer get posted. Check our 2013 Election coverage for all responses as they come in.

Here’s Simon Woolf, candidate for Onslow Western Ward Wellington.

1.      What should be the city council’s role in helping homeless people and beggars?

I believe the Council should be sympathetic; however any funding should be in consultation, and via organisations like The City Mission, and The Night Shelter

 2. What would you do to make Wellington more cycle and pedestrian friendly?

Education, for all drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, and establishing a Code of Conduct for all. Greater enforcement, with all three modes. Cycle lanes ,where practicable.

3. How do you think traffic flow to the hospital and airport should be improved?

A greater emphasis on ring roading the CBD.  Less congestion to create smoother flows. Better phasing of lights at key times.

4. What are your views on the suggestion Wellington needs to be “more than just Weta and Government” – what do you think are Wellington’s strengths?

We do need to be more than just Weta and Government. Wellingtons strengths lie in: The Creative Industries, IT, Events, and especially Adventure / Eco Tourism.

5. What will YOU do to get more investment, businesses, and business confidence in Wellington?

I’d provide tangible incentives eg including rates rebates, mentor, and marketing assistance to both keep, and attract enterprise to Wellington. Provide smoother compliance/ consent processes.

6.  What does Wellington need more of, and what does Wellington need less of?

Wellington needs a more can do, will do attitude, and less of a “where is ours”, approach. We need to show more initiative and enterprise.

7..What would your city council provide for children and young people?

More pure events eg like Carols by Candlelight, Waitangi Day etc. Better suburban amenities promoting health and wellbeing eg Wheel and Adventure Parks.

8.What steps would you take to encourage civic engagement?

Council would consult face to face with ratepayers and stake holders innovatively, and regularly. The engagement would be in tandem at governance and operational levels.

9. Tell us about your personal earthquake plan / What’s unusual about your earthquake kit?

Our plan revolves around common sense, communication and survival. We have a diabetic in our family, so nothing has been left to chance.

10.  Why should we vote for you?

I have diverse and unique set of skills. I am proven, and make things happen. I have vast experience and expertise in some key areas.

11.   Where can we find out more about what you stand for?

https://www.facebook.com/OnslowWestern?ref=hl and www.simonwoolf.co.nz