Welcome to my February Newsletter.
I hope you've had a fantastic start to 2025. If you are a regular reader of my newsletters, you’ll be aware of my new Ministerial portfolios and responsibilities. I had my official swearing in ceremony on the 23rd of January, and it was an honour to accept my duties at Government House in Auckland as the Minister for Youth, Minister for Hunting and Fishing, Associate Minister of Transport, and the first ever Minister for the South Island. This is an incredible opportunity to advocate for our communities, industries, and young people while ensuring the South Island’s voice is heard at the decision-making table. I look forward to getting stuck into the work ahead!
There’s no denying that many Kiwis have faced tough times over the past few years. High inflation and rising interest rates have put pressure on families, businesses, and communities across the country. But our Government has been working hard to turn things around.
Now, wages are outpacing inflation, and interest rates are beginning to ease. This is real relief for mortgage holders and working families, with savings of around $200 per fortnight on a $500,000 loan. For the first time in 14 years, Kiwis are holding onto more of their earnings thanks to tax relief. Inflation is also trending down, especially domestically, helping to bring down the cost of essentials like groceries. This is a start, but there is more to do.
Our vision is for a New Zealand where everyone can get ahead—whether you’re raising a family, running a business, or working towards your future. That’s why we’re focused on growth. More growth means greater opportunities, stronger communities, and more choices for you and your loved ones. Together, we’re building a future where New Zealand’s best days are still to come.
Every three years, Youth Parliament gives young New Zealanders a chance to engage in politics and represent their communities. If you know a motivated young person who would like to be the Youth MP for Rangitata, please encourage them to apply. No prior political experience is needed—just passion, curiosity, and a drive to make a difference. The application period for Youth MPs is now open and closes on Friday 28 February. Youth Parliament activities run from May to July, culminating in a two-day event at Parliament on Tuesday 1 July and Wednesday 2 July 2025. Information is available online here, and details on how to apply are available through my Mid and South Canterbury offices.
Recent Key Announcements
State of the Nation 2025: We’re going to keep delivering significant substantive change – change that will have an immediate impact in 2025, and that our kids will thank us for in 2035. (Beehive PR)
Invest New Zealand opens doors to the world: The Government has unveiled a bold new initiative to position New Zealand as a premier destination for foreign direct investment that will create higher paying jobs and grow the economy. (Beehive PR)
Reforms to boost science sector and economy: Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins announced the largest reset of the New Zealand science system in more than 30 years with reforms which will boost the economy and benefit the sector. (Beehive PR)
Drop in domestic inflation hailed: Finance Minister Nicola Willis has hailed a drop in the domestic component of inflation, saying it increases the prospect of mortgage rate reductions and a lower cost of living for Kiwi households. (Beehive PR)
Relentless focus on literacy & numeracy at school: A world-leading education system is a key driver to economic growth. We want all children to be proficient and confident in reading, writing and maths so they grow up and live the lives they want. (Beehive PR)
Justice Select Committee: The Committee is currently considering the Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill, the Disputes Tribunal Amendment Bill, and hearing oral submissions on the Treaty Principals Bill. The Crimes Legislation (Stalking and Harassment) Amendment Bill is currently open for public submissions. (NZ Parliament Website)
Government confirms international commitment to disability community: New Zealand’s strong commitment to the rights of disabled people has continued with the response to an important United Nations report. (Beehive PR)
KO disruptive tenants' easy ride over: The latest data shows Kāinga Ora is taking action against disruptive tenants leading to improved behaviour. (Beehive PR)
New Dunedin Hospital site confirmed: The former Cadbury factory will be the site of the Inpatient Building for the new Dunedin Hospital. (Beehive PR)
Ministers welcome Kāinga Ora’s revised approach to wool carpets: Ministers have welcomed Kāinga Ora’s decision to re-open its tender for carpets to allow wool carpet suppliers to bid. (Beehive PR)
Upcoming events
6-16 Feb Seaside Festival, Timaru
10-16 Feb World Tennis Tour, Trust Aoraki Tennis Centre Timaru
21 Feb Lunch Club in Ashburton, Tim Costley MP guest speaker
22-23 Feb BlueGreens Forum in Methven, registration details here
28 Feb-1 Mar 150th Annual Winchester A&P Show, Winchester Showgrounds
1 Mar Multicultural Aoraki Festival, Ara Polytech, Timaru
2 Mar Mid Canterbury Children's Day, Tinwald Domain, 10:30am-2:30pm
2 Mar Hadlow to Harbour Fun Run, Walk, Jog, Timaru
Highlights
I had the fantastic opportunity to experience some of the action at the Thunder Down Under truck racing at Levels Raceway. A huge shoutout to the great team at South Canterbury Car Club, who do an incredible job running this successful event and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Levels Raceway is a real asset to the South Canterbury region, and this annual event continues to draw strong support from both locals and visitors. Over three adrenaline-packed days, spectators get to enjoy an exciting lineup featuring Muscle Cars, Super Trucks, and V8s. I was also honoured to officially flag the start of the Kids in Cars event, where young children get the special chance to take a slow lap in a real race car—an unforgettable experience for them!
Photo Credit: South Canterbury Car Club
It was a privilege to attend the prizegiving for the 50th anniversary of the Tour of Timaru South Canterbury Speed Skating competition, held in Timaru at the end of January. This milestone event brought together talented skaters from across New Zealand and Internationally for an exciting weekend of competition. A special highlight was the recognition of an incredible 50-year contribution to the club, with the official naming of the building in honour of Bill and Cheryl Begg, and the Begg family—a well-deserved tribute to their dedication to the sport.
I stopped by the SHEAR for Life cancer fundraising event at Hindsridge Farm on Saturday 1 February, and what an incredible day it was, raising over $150,000 for Mid Canterbury Cancer Society and the Hospice! Over 3,000 sheep were shorn in eight hours of non-stop shearing, with both international and national shearers coming together for this great cause. The event had fantastic support from local and national businesses and individuals, who generously provided raffle prizes, auction items, and machinery. The public turned out in huge numbers, making for a brilliant day that not only showcased the strength and spirit of our farming community but also raised vital funds for an important cause.
The Te Aitarakihi Jobs Fair to support Alliance Smithfield prior employees, and others looking for jobs, was held on Tuesday 28 January. There was over 200 people in attendance and was an opportunity for the community to get together for the purpose of finding employment but also to connect with other families for a fun day of activities. Thank you to the organisers from Te Aitarakihi, Timaru District Council, The Ministry of Social Development, and Connected. On the jobs front, we continue to work with businesses and agencies to find work for Smithfield workers. Dad works at Southern Packers and tells me they have already recruited a number of Smithfield workers for the upcoming season.
Finally, I attended the National Caucus Retreat in Hamilton in January. The team use this time to set priorities for the year ahead. As the inaugural Minister for the South Island, my mandate is to ensure the mainland's voice resonates strongly in ministerial discussions. Working with Finance Minister Nicola Willis, a key focus will be delivering her economic growth agenda in the South Island, driving economic growth, creating jobs, boosting exports, raising incomes, and expanding opportunities for families to thrive.
My priorities are straightforward: grow the South Island's economy while delivering the quality public services that mainlanders both expect and deserve. In particular in transport, infrastructure, housing, education and health. Importantly, these new responsibilities complement my role as MP for Rangitata. Ministerial duties enhance my ability to serve, providing direct access to decision-making processes while maintaining my steadfast commitment to Mid and South Canterbury.
Thank you for your continued support, the response from constituents has been overwhelming and positive. I’m really looking forward to 2025.
Contact the team:
Any issues or feedback to do with my portfolio areas, contact my ministerial team at j.meager@ministers.govt.nz
If you need help with a local electorate issue (Mid Canterbury or South Canterbury) contact my electorate offices at james.meagerMP@parliament.govt.nz
Call: South Canterbury 03 683 2009 or Mid Canterbury 03 307 1729.
Drop in: Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm.