As June draws to a close, it’s been a time for reflection and renewal as we embrace the season of Matariki—a moment to pause, remember, and look forward.
On a more personal note (and the update I know many of you have been waiting for!)—baby Lochie has just turned one month old! Becoming a first-time mum has been a beautiful whirlwind—full of sleepless nights, countless cuddles, and learning something new every day.
Lochie had his first Plunket appointment today and is thriving—growing strong and healthy, and stacking on the weight like a champ! It’s both amazing and exhausting, and I’m incredibly grateful for the love and support surrounding me as I navigate this special new chapter.
In this issue:
· Mānawatia a Matariki
· Minister James Meager Visit to Napier
· Trivia Night
· Community Pop-in
· Highlights this month
· Recent Policy announcements
· What’s happened in the house
· Upcoming events and important dates
While I am on parliamentary leave, my team in the electorate office are always eager to hear your thoughts and ideas so please don't hesitate to get in touch with them at any time.
As we celebrate Matariki, it’s a great time to reconnect and look ahead -thanks for being part of the journey.
Here to listen, here to help!
A Special Matariki: New Beginnings and Community Spirit
Matariki is a time for reflection, celebration, and looking to the future with hope. This year holds special significance for me as I mark my first Matariki as a mum. Welcoming our son has brought a deeper connection to the themes of remembrance, renewal, and whānau.
As we honour those who came before us and come together with loved ones to set intentions for the year ahead, I feel an immense sense of gratitude—for our community, for new beginnings, and for the bright future we’re creating together here in Napier.
Wishing you and your whānau a season filled with warmth, aroha, and connection.
Hon. James Meager MP at Napier SuperBlues
It was a real pleasure to welcome Hon. James Meager MP to our recent Napier SuperBlues meeting. James spoke openly about his journey into politics, the experience of stepping into his new role as a Minister, and the important work he's doing across his portfolios—including, the South Island, Hunting & Fishing and Youth.
As always, our SuperBlues brought thoughtful questions and lively discussion, making it a valuable and engaging session. A big thank you to James for making the trip—you're welcome back in Napier anytime!
My local office is here for you
Whether you have a local issue you'd like to discuss, want to hear the latest updates from Parliament, or simply feel like saying hello, my electorate office team would love to see you. There’s no need for formalities, just a good old-fashioned community catch-up.
Feel free to bring a friend and pop by anytime!
Highlights this month
Celebrating Hawke's Bay Excellence
This King’s Birthday, I’m proud to acknowledge seven outstanding individuals from Hawke’s Bay who have been recognised for their exceptional contributions to our region and our country.
John O’Sullivan of Havelock North has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for his remarkable services to business and education. As the driving force behind the Tumu Group—employing over 600 staff—John’s leadership and community initiatives have had a lasting impact on Hawke’s Bay.
Gail Spence of Napier also receives the ONZM for her dedication to language education, while Jennifer Wake, also of Napier, has been honoured for her significant contributions to theatre and television.
Elizabeth Graham of Pukehou has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for her services to Māori and education, recognising her deep commitment to cultural enrichment and learning.
Dr Christopher Longhurst of Napier has been awarded the King’s Service Medal (KSM) for his tireless advocacy for survivors of abuse in care. As the founder of the New Zealand chapter of SNAP, his work has been instrumental in supporting those affected.
Nicky Rawlings of Dartmoor has been recognised with the KSM for her invaluable work with Victim Support, and Berry Rangi of Napier receives the KSM for her dedicated service to the community, particularly Pacific peoples.
These honours are a powerful reminder of the dedication, compassion, and leadership that thrive in Hawke’s Bay. Let’s take a moment to celebrate these individuals who truly exemplify the spirit of service and community.
A Step Forward for Specialist Education in Napier
Fairhaven School in Napier, which plays a vital role in supporting tamariki with high needs, is set to benefit from the Government’s latest investment in specialist education. As part of our commitment to inclusive, high-quality learning, Fairhaven will receive funding for two new purpose-built classrooms designed to better meet the needs of their students.
This is a meaningful step toward ensuring every child has access to the support and resources they deserve. It’s great to see Napier included in this nationwide initiative, and even better to know it will have a lasting impact on our community.
Goodtime Pies: Local Icon Baking Up Jobs and Growth
It was a pleasure to visit Eric—better known as the “Pie Minister”, at Goodtime Pies in Napier.
This iconic local business produces an impressive 75,000 pies each day and provides jobs for over 130 locals. We discussed how ongoing RMA reform and improvements to roading infrastructure can help support their future growth and ensure more pies reach more Kiwis across the country. I also had the chance to tour the production line, and I can confidently say their vegan pies are top-notch!
Recent Policy Announcements
Lots of policy announcements have been made this month. Please click on the links below to learn more.
Education
More classrooms for children with high needs – read the Beehive PR here
The Government is ensuring more students with the highest learning support needs have access to warm, safe, dry and fit-for-purpose learning environments.
Modernising Early Childhood Education funding – read the Beehive PR here
Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Funding Review to ensure the funding system is simple, fair, and gets value for money.
Health
Vapes stores go dark, disposable vapes banned – read the Beehive PR here
Vaping law changes that take effect today ban disposable vapes and will make a noticeable difference to shop fronts and the marketing of vaping products, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello says.
Strong interest in new programme for overseas-trained doctors – read the Beehive PR here
A total of 180 overseas-trained doctors have expressed interest in a new Government-funded training programme aimed at boosting New Zealand’s primary care workforce, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
GPs to receive record funding boost – read the Beehive PR here
General practices are set to benefit from the largest funding boost in New Zealand’s history – because frontline care starts with your local GP, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
Agriculture
Legislation introduced to restrict farm-to-forest conversions – read the Beehive PR here
Today Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay introduced long awaited legislation that will put a stop to large-scale farm-to-forestry conversions – delivering on a key election promise to protect the future of New Zealand food production.
Hunting and Fishing
Fish & Game reforms to modernise organisation – read the Beehive PR here
Reforms to modernise and strengthen Fish & Game New Zealand will improve the national management of hunting and fishing resources and advocacy, while maintaining local control over local fishing and hunting rules, Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager has announced.
Finance
Going for growth with more overseas investment – read the Beehive PR here
Associate Finance Minister David Seymour welcomes the introduction of legislation to make it easier for New Zealand businesses to receive new investment, grow and pay higher wages.
Economic surprise great news for Kiwis – read the Beehive PR here
Today’s surprise economic result is great news for workers, families and businesses, Finance Minister Nicola Willis said today.
“Stats NZ reported today that the economy grew 0.8 per cent in the first three months of the year, twice the rate forecast by the Treasury and the Reserve Bank a short time ago.
Mental Health
Changes for prescribing ADHD medications – read the Beehive PR here
Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has welcomed prescribing changes that will enable GPs and nurse practitioners to diagnose and treat adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Police
Tougher sentences ahead as Three Strikes returns – read the Beehive PR here
The Sentencing Amendment Act 2024 brings back the "three strikes" law, a key part of the Coalition’s law and order agenda.
Transport
Taking the handbrake off productivity through transport rule reform – read the Beehive PR here
The Government is progressing a bold work programme to increase productivity and efficiency through comprehensively reforming New Zealand’s land transport rules.
Foreign Affairs
Ministerial statement on the Middle East – read the Beehive PR here
Statement to the House by the Minister of Foreign Affairs on the situation in the Middle East
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