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 the response from Malcolm Sparrow, candidate for Northern Ward.

1. What should be the city council’s role in helping homeless people and beggars?
Work with community groups like DCM as well as central government to ensure practical help is available.

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

Look at the practicality of cycle lanes, more shared pathways like the Tawa Valley Pathway, and possibly some car-free zones.

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

Progress needs to be made on both the flyover and the second Mt Vic tunnel, as well as ensuring efficient public transport options.

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 know we’re already more than that.  We have many well-educated and innovative people – make the most of what they have to offer.

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

Push for more consultation with the business community and push for greater promotion of Wellington domestically and internationally.

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

It needs more employment opportunities so people don’t have to look elsewhere for work.  We need less dithering when it comes to getting things done.

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

A couple of artificial turfs in the northern suburbs, another skateboard park or two, and an opportunity for more input from the Youth Council.

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

Encourage more community input into local projects.  Liaise more closely with schools.

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

Fairly standard kit but I recently purchased a 200 litre water tank which is now filled and tethered to a (hopefully) sturdy tree.

10. Why should we vote for you?

I have a track record of working hard in my community and would like the opportunity of working similarly for my ward and city.

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

www.malcolmsparrow.com