Christmas is at our doorstep, so I hope you have a great break over the silly season and a Happy New Year! I’ll be sticking around the electorate and heading to local events—feel free to come and say hi if you see me. My office is now closed until January 12, 2026, so my team can have a well-deserved break.
December:
- Celebrated with members of the Wellington Jewish community on the Parliament forecourt for a Chanukah candle-lighting ceremony after the tragic events in Bondi. Moments like this remind us of the importance of standing together against hatred and upholding peace, safety, and respect for one another.
- Had my last Reo & Tikanga session for the year, hosted by Minister Tama Potaka. We focused on Te Tau Ihu o te Waka a Māui—the top of the South Island.
- Joined local National MPs at the opening of the Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre in Christchurch. This world-class facility will make a real difference for local families, athletes, and community groups—a huge milestone and win for Christchurch. The facility is now open to the public.
- I’m happy to announce that I have been confirmed as the National Party candidate for Banks Peninsula for the 2026 election. Being the MP for Banks Peninsula is a tremendous honour, and I will continue to work hard for the people of the electorate.
Community Update:
Recently, I’ve received a lot of feedback about the new bus lanes along SH75. Early next year, I’ll be launching a survey asking Halswell residents what they think about the new bus lanes along SH75 Halswell Road between Dunbars Road and Curletts Road. Keep an eye on my Facebook page for updates.
On that note, I’ll also be hosting more Pub Politics Sessions and a Community Drop-In Session in January. For details, please check my Facebook page in the new year.
Last week, I popped into the Halswell Community Hub to catch up with Keri and Kate, who do an amazing job. It’s been a tough year for some families, so the team has been collecting donations on behalf of the Christchurch City Mission for Christmas.
National News:
- Pre-Christmas economic boost welcomed: Stats NZ data shows that the economy grew 1.1% in Q3, helping to create jobs and lift wages. (Beehive PR)
- Food and fibre exports to reach $62bn: Farmers, growers and primary producers are driving our economy with food and fibre exports set to reach a record $62bn next year. (Beehive PR)
- HYEFU 2025: Economic and fiscal repair job continues: The economy is forecast to grow 3% next year and inflation to remain low throughout the forecast period. New Zealanders can expect wages to grow faster than inflation every year and about 270,000 jobs over five years. (Beehive PR)
- Health targets: Patients getting improved care: Kiwis are receiving faster access to healthcare, with the latest quarterly results showing year-on-year improvements across all health targets. (Beehive PR)
Out and About in Banks Peninsula:
- Went along to the Mt Pleasant Famers Market and Lyttelton Farmers Market. Great to see people out enjoying the sunshine and picking up delicious local produce.
- My team attended the 175th anniversary of the Canterbury Pilgrims event this morning, hosted by the Canterbury Pilgrims and Early Settlers Association, with special guest speaker Mayor Phil Mauger. Each year, this event commemorates the arrival of the first European settlers in Lyttelton, who arrived in 1850 via the first four ships (Charlotte Jane, Randolph, Sir George Seymour, Cressy), making Lyttelton their gateway to the planned inland city of Christchurch.
- Went along to the Heathcote Christmas Market—wonderful to see all the Christmas decorations and cheer.
- Volunteered as a barcode scanner at Scarborough Parkrun—over 250 runners! A fantastic way to get out early and watch others being healthy.
- Joined the draw for the Taylors Mistake Surf Club raffle. I popped over to do the draw and say hi to the patrols. Thank you to everyone who keeps Kiwis safe in and out of the water this season.
