The last two years have been significant and possibly transformative for this country. As a first-time MP I’ve seen how the impact of a global pandemic has played out in the lives of my constituents and the actions of our country’s leaders.

In this article, I want to highlight some of what’s been happening, and in doing so illustrate how Wellington’s decisions must be guided by our communities as much as politicians. I campaigned during the election on a platform that was strong on local issues, because I believe what matters to communities should be reflected in the decisions the government makes.

Protecting the environment and improving water quality in the Hauraki Gulf were key goals for me, and I’ve attended numerous meetings with groups and individuals who are similarly committed to cleaning up our beaches. As a National MP, I’ve also been proud to support my party’s commitment to protect our environment. 

Our grid-locked roads also remain a focus for my attention. With the cycle bridge stopped there’s a renewed determination to get a second harbour crossing that will actually do the job. My voice has joined others in Wellington to get this done. Here on the Shore I’ve been demanding attention from the Council, government, and others for a solution to Lake Road. The Council has kicked any fix back to 2024 or 26! On your behalf I’m telling them that’s not good enough. It’s the same with the decision to axe the Stanley Point ferry service; Fullers and the Council have said they will look at the issue again in a year. I’ve put that deadline in my diary and they will both continue hearing from me in the lead-up to that review.

Unfortunately, the housing crisis is showing no sign of easing, and the meetings I’ve had with the Ministry for Social Development, police and other stakeholders tell a sorry tale of increasing demand for emergency housing. I know there are huge issues with finding homes that are affordable and healthy to live in, but simply plugging gaps with motel accommodation isn’t an answer. Ideas and leadership need to come from Wellington. As an ambulance officer I’ve seen terrible living conditions right here on the Shore and as an MP I’ve met young constituents who have given up on ever owning a home. Those experiences are driving me to demand better solutions and smarter thinking from a government that seems to have run out of ideas.

There’s a crisis in our health sector too, where a shortage of doctors and nurses is being aggravated by an MIQ logjam that’s stopping thousands of health professionals getting into the country. I’ve also met people who are desperate to have loved ones back with them from overseas, and I’ve spoken to businesses that can’t get the skilled people they need to grow. These are local experiences that stayed with me as I co-authored National’s Covid recovery plan.

Twelve months on the job have convinced me more than ever that local voices need to be heard when Wellington is making decisions. Make sure yours is. Get in touch and tell us what’s important.