Tributes are being paid to former Franklin Local Board member, Malcolm Bell, who passed away on Tuesday 13 October 2026.
Prior to stepping down earlier this year, Malcolm served on the Franklin Local Board for 12 years, representing the communities of Whitford, Beachlands, Maraetai, Clevedon, Brookby, Alfriston, Ardmore, Kawakawa Bay, Ōrere Point, Hūnua, Paparimu, Ararimu, Ramarama, Drury South and Bombay.
Franklin Local Board chair, Alan Cole is saddened by the loss of a great contributor and supporter of Franklin’s community.
“We will remember Malcolm as a constructive and supportive team member, a tireless worker, campaigner, educator, confidante, advocate and friend,” says chair Cole.
“Malcolm’s unwavering commitment to the community and this team was admirable. He championed community-led environmental and sustainability initiatives, including planting at Hūnua Domain and improvements to the Maraetai Ada Platts-Mills Reserve.
“And he was dedicated to representing Franklin over many years and consistently showed up to meetings and events to support initiatives that benefited our communities,” he says.
Malcolm played a key role in progressing projects such as the Paparata Local Purpose Reserve development from a grazing paddock to a playground, Hūnua Village Green development and the Sunkist Bay concept plan.
Auckland Council Chief Executive, Phil Wilson is moved by the news.
“It is incredibly sad to learn about Malcolm’s passing, and we are grateful for his dedication to our community and service to local government.
“At a personal level, I will remember Malcolm very fondly. He was at all times a passionate advocate for his community but also a constructive, pragmatic and decent man.”
Deputy local board chair Amanda Hopkins, who served with Malcolm during most of his tenure, has fond memories.
“As a fellow member representing the Wairoa subdivision, Malcolm was extremely supportive and we were very close. He encouraged me to stand for the position and took me under his wing,” says deputy chair Hopkins.
“Malcolm was very well regarded and since he stepped down, he continues to be remembered by the community on an almost weekly basis and we will miss him greatly.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to Malcolm’s wife Janice and family.”
Details of Malcolm’s funeral service will be shared via the family.