Howick’s Adele White Reflects on Decades of Community Service

Adele White, a prominent figure in Howick, has dedicated her life to serving her community through education, policing, and local governance. Recently re-elected to the Howick Local Board, White’s commitment to her hometown is rooted in her deep connection to the area and her desire to ensure that residents are well represented in local decision-making processes.

Born at the former Howick Obstetric Hospital, White grew up in the Howick Beach neighbourhood, attending local schools such as Howick District High School and Pakuranga College. She fondly recalls her childhood in a close-knit community where safety and camaraderie reigned. “Howick always felt safe, and we looked out for each other,” White explained. Her memories include walking to school events and visiting friends, reflecting a simpler time when families left their doors unlocked and shared the bounty from their gardens.

White’s heritage in Howick runs deep. She discovered through her family history that her great-great grandfather and great-grandfather were among the Fencible settlers who arrived in 1847. This connection to the area’s history strengthens her identity as a true Howickian.

In 1982, White began her career in law enforcement with the Ministry of Transport as a road traffic instructor. This role focused on road safety education in schools and the wider community. When the Ministry merged with New Zealand Police in 1992, she transitioned to policing, where she served for a total of 33 years. Throughout her career, White specialised in education, particularly in areas such as drug education and child protection. She took pride in developing safety programs for schools and mentoring new officers.

Reflecting on her career, White highlighted a significant achievement: an eight-month stint as a police advisor in the Solomon Islands. “It was an amazing experience with many notable adventures,” she noted. Walking the beat in Howick was another highlight, where she formed connections with community members and assured them of their safety.

Now in her sixth term on the Howick Local Board, White has a clear vision for her role. “The pride, loyalty and affection I have for Howick inspires me to ensure our people are well represented in local decision making,” she stated. Throughout her tenure, she has contributed to numerous projects, including the completion of the Half Moon Bay Ferry Terminal and improvements to local parks like Barry Curtis and Lloyd Elsmore Parks.

White is particularly proud of the connections she has built with local groups. She believes that understanding their needs is vital for effective governance. Recently, she played a significant role in opposing Plan Change 120, providing critical feedback that reflected community concerns.

In her personal life, White enjoys exploring the natural beauty of east Auckland. She frequently visits Whitford and the Pohutukawa Coast for scenic walks, where she captures photographs of the landscape and wildlife. Dining out is another passion; she and her friends, known as the Gourmet Globetrotters, aim to experience different cuisines from around the world.

Looking to the future, White expressed a hope for greater harmony within New Zealand society. “I would like to see all New Zealanders live in harmony with each other and their surroundings,” she remarked.

With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to her community, Adele White continues to be a valued servant of Howick, ensuring that the voices of its residents are heard and respected in local governance.