She’s someone who gets on with the job and can be relied on to lend a helping hand, with a proven track record in business and community activities. As she enters her first election campaign, she explains to PJ TAYLOR what she’s done and why.

Where were you born and grew up?

I was born in London and grew up in Enfield, a leafy suburb on the outskirts of the city. As the middle child (I have an older sister, Louise, and a younger brother, Ben), we had a wonderful upbringing in a warm, loving family home. What began as a household of five has now grown into a close-knit clan of 17, with partners and children in the mix. Family has always been at the heart of everything we do, and despite the distance, we’re closer than ever. I learned early on to be adaptable, sociable, and, being the middle child, diplomatic! Communication has always come naturally to me, and those skills have been a strength through life.

In recognition of outstanding service and dedication in our local community. This was awarded to Sarah Kavanagh by the Rotary Club of Pakuranga, on Monday 21st July, 2025.

This week’s recipient is Sarah Kavanagh.

She was nominated by Raewyn, who writes: “Sarah is on the Shelly Park School board (and PTA), she helps manage two football teams for Bucklands Beach children, she’s been on gymnastics committees, playgroup committees, and everything that supports families within the area.

“She’s always working behind the scenes helping set up Shop Local, Shop Howick, and is always involved promoting the best interests of business and the community within Howick. She would be the first to put up her hand to help.”