Simeon Says!

On Thursday 22 May the National-led Coalition Government delivered Budget 2025, with a clear focus on growing the economy, and investing in frontline services. Some of the key initiatives we announced include:

Establishing the Investment Boost tax incentive to encourage businesses to invest, grow and lift wages.
Strengthening Health services through a $7 billion operating funding uplift over the forecast period to deliver timely, quality healthcare.
Strengthening Education provision with $1.5 billion over the forecast period to improve student achievement.
Improving Law and Order through $1.1 billion additional investment over the forecast period to support Police and improve public safety.
Building Defence Force and Foreign Affairs capability, with $1.9 billion total operating and $1.1 billion total capital investment that recognises New Zealand's role in supporting peace and prosperity in the Pacific.

Our strong fiscal and economic management has ensured recovery is now underway. Budget 2025 strikes a careful balance - making the investments our country needs now while driving long-term reforms to safeguard the economic recovery and growth New Zealanders depend on. It is a responsible Budget that secures New Zealand’s future.

For full information on Budget 2025 initiatives, visit the Budget website by clicking here.

What's happening in Pakuranga

My first focus is always our community here in Pakuranga. Many of you will have heard the story of St Marks Catholic School student Harper Davis, whose heroic and decisive action during the recent Pakuranga McDonald's fire ensured no-one was harmed. I had the pleasure of visiting Harper at school recently to thank her on behalf of the community, and present her with a Parliamentary Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of her bravery. You can read more about Harper's heroics here.

I recently visited the Eastern Busway and Reeves Road Flyover sites for an update on these important projects. It has been great to see the progress made over the last several months, particularly with the Flyover taking shape over Ti Rakau Drive. Unfortunately, there is still some pain to go before we can take advantage of this new connection, as major works begin in the next few months to connect the Flyover with Pakuranga Road. Once specific information is available, I will post it on my social media pages so keep an eye out for updates, or visit easternbusway.nz.

I had the pleasure of representing the Government at a recent ceremony to congratulate those who were recognised in the New Year's Honours List, including Pakuranga local Dinesh Khadka, who was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to the Nepalese community. 

Two other Pakuranga locals were named in the NY Honours List, with Denise Astill named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the prevention of foetal anticonvulsant syndromes, while Reay Neben was awarded the King's Service Medal for contributions to journalism and her local community.

Last week, the King's Birthday List was released with five Pakuranga locals recognised:

Ranjna Patel was made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to ethnic communities, health, and family violence prevention.
George Clifton was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to structural engineering.
Laurinne Laing was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to sports and people with intellectual disabilities.
Pene Frost was awarded a King’s Service Medal for services to children and social work.
Julia Castles was awarded a King’s Service Medal for services to language education and migrant communities.

Congratulations to all of those who received a recent Honour in recognition for their service to their community and country.

Thank you for all your support. If you need any assistance from me as your local MP for Pakuranga, my office is available to help - you can contact us at 09 572 0000 or by email at PakurangaMP@parliament.govt.nz.