It has been a busy month across Mid and South Canterbury, with several important updates affecting our economy, infrastructure, and primary industries.
Mid Canterbury’s arable growers have faced one of their toughest summers in years, with persistent wet weather, waterlogged paddocks, and sudden hailstorms causing widespread crop damage. Following advocacy from Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust, Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg and I worked with ministers to secure a declaration of a medium scale adverse event. This unlocks additional support for affected farmers. Inland Revenue may consider tax relief options, and the Ministry of Social Development can assess eligibility for Rural Assistance Payments and activate Enhanced Taskforce Green. Rural Advisory Groups, Rural Support Trusts, Federated Farmers, FAR, Beef and Lamb New Zealand and other partners are coordinating practical assistance, including events on winter feed management, cashflow, and planning for next season. Farmers needing support are encouraged to contact the Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254 for free, confidential help.
Coastal communities, including those locally where severe weather can quickly disrupt transport links, will also benefit from new investment to strengthen coastal resilience. A $3 million upgrade has been confirmed for the Rangitata, the coastal bulk vessel that proved essential during Cyclone Gabrielle when road access was cut. The upgrade will allow the vessel to carry a wider range of cargo and operate even if port infrastructure is damaged. This is an important capability for regions where a single bridge closure can significantly affect access, supply routes, and community wellbeing.
Significant progress is also being made on long‑standing infrastructure challenges, including the State Highway 1 intersection at the Timaru Showgrounds. A $2.8 million taxpayer contribution, alongside funding from the Showgrounds developer, will deliver a $4.15 million upgrade to improve traffic flow, signalling, and safety for pedestrians and cyclists. This work will unlock the next stage of the Showgrounds development, enabling around 20,000m² of commercial space and up to 300 future jobs. It should also encourage progress on the Grants Rd commercial development at the same time, with the precinct generating more activity and commerce, particularly from through-traffic. In addition, the replacement of two century old bridges on State Highway 82 in South Canterbury will improve safety and resilience for residents, farmers, and freight operators across the region.
South Canterbury’s cruise sector also reached a milestone this summer, with Timaru hosting a full passenger turnaround for the Scenic Eclipse II, one of the world’s most advanced vessels. The operation showcased the capability of PrimePort and highlighted wider economic benefits, from increased activity for tourism operators to significant purchases made from local businesses, including retailers in Temuka and the Mackenzie country. National tourism numbers continue to strengthen, with international arrivals now approaching pre‑COVID levels and contributing positively to regional economies like ours.
Finally, New Zealand’s first 30‑year National Infrastructure Plan was released last month, outlining a long‑term approach to improving the country’s roads, water services, hospitals, and energy networks. The plan highlights the importance of better asset information, consistent project management, and clear long‑term investment strategies. Key priorities include hospital upgrades, modernised water infrastructure, sequencing major transport projects, and supporting more efficient land use near key transport routes. For our region, the focus on resilience, maintenance, and long‑term stability will help guide planning for flood protection, transport links, and essential community services.
Key learning support package rolls out for Term 1: The Government is delivering on its commitment to ensure every child gets the support they need to thrive, with major Budget 2025 learning support initiatives rolling out in schools as students return for Term 1 (Beehive PR)
Fewer victims of crime, more police on the beat: Figures show that there were 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously (Beehive PR)
Sheep farmers forecast for record year: Meat and wool export revenue is forecast to increase seven per cent to $13.2 billion in the year to 30 June 2026 (Beehive PR)
Investment Boost driving real investment, lifting productivity: The Government’s Investment Boost is already changing investment behaviour, bringing projects forward, increasing scale, and lifting productivity across the economy (Beehive PR)
National Infrastructure Plan Delivered: Welcomed release of the National Infrastructure Plan tabled in Parliament (Beehive PR)
All wartime service now honoured on Anzac Day: Legislation to formally recognise all those who have served New Zealand in times of war as part of Anzac Day commemorations has passed in Parliament (Beehive PR)
KiwiSaver adjustment to help rural workers: The Government is removing the barriers that prevent many farm and other rural workers from using their KiwiSaver accounts to buy their first homes (Beehive PR)
Ship upgrade to improve coastal resilience in disasters: New Zealand’s ability to support communities following natural disasters and other major emergencies will be improved by an investment into a key coastal bulk ship upgrade (Beehive PR)
Science, Maths and English resources rolling into classrooms: The Government is rolling out new Maths, English, and Science resources and initiatives, helping raise student achievement and sparking discovery in primary classrooms with brand-new science kits (Beehive PR)
Active Investor Plus delivers $3 billion in investment in New Zealand: Less than a year after it was refreshed, the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa is bringing $3.39 billion into New Zealand (Beehive PR)
December visitor arrivals highest since 2019: The Government welcomes new data showing New Zealand’s international visitor arrivals continued to rise in December, with strong growth from China and Australia in particular (Beehive PR)
Nearly 40,000 more building products approved: Thousands more plumbing and drainage products already used widely in Australia can now be accessed easily by Kiwi tradies and do-it-yourself homeowners (Beehive PR)
Driving investment in new energy projects: The Government is leveraging public sector energy demand to drive new energy projects and grow our national supply (Beehive PR)
If you are interested here is a link to read the PR Releases relating to my Ministerial portfolios.
6 Mar Age Concern Friday Club, Timaru
7 Mar Temuka & Geraldine A&P Show, Winchester
14 Mar Mayfield A&P 100th Show
18 Mar Glenariffe Wetlands Official Opening
18 Mar Methven Lions Club event
21 Mar Methven A&P Show
22 Mar NZ Secondary Schools Rowing Champs (Maadi Cup) Opening, Twizel
27 Mar Te Kaha One NZ Stadium Opening, Christchurch
4 Apr Warbirds over Wanaka
Visit the following sites for more information on events happening in our region:
I recently visited Lovett Family Farms in Mid Canterbury and was happy to hear their success in what has been a tough season for many growers. The Lovett family has been producing quality crops for more than 60 years, with a strong focus on environmental responsibility. They grow carrots, wheat and barley, blackcurrants, onions, peas, potatoes, beetroot and speciality seeds, and hold both Global GAP and BioGro Organic certifications. I met with Greg, Daniel and Jo Lovett to talk through key issues facing producers, including port and export challenges, overseas consumer relationships, water consenting, and agricultural transport rules. It was great to hear their insights and see firsthand the commitment behind their multi‑generation family operation.
(Photo: At Lovetts Family Farm in Ashburton)
It was great to visit the staff and students at Highfield School. Principal Amy Logavatu gave us a tour of the specialist high needs education unit, providing education and support for ORS funded students. The recent refurbishment of the junior teaching block is looking great, as is their new school motto “Together we soar to new heights”.
(Photo: With Principal Amy Logavatu at Highfield School, Timaru)
It was a pleasure to attend the recent ANZ Ashburton Business of the Year Awards and to spend the evening surrounded by so many outstanding local businesses. The Ashburton Aviation Museum made for an incredible venue, its unique setting and atmosphere added something special to the night. Congratulations to Greg Donaldson Contracting Limited, winner of the Supreme Award, and to all our 2026 finalists. From innovation and sustainability to emerging talent and community impact, these awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of organisations large and small across our district.
(Photo: With Mayor Liz McMillan at the Ashburton Business of the Year Awards)
It was great to visit Ashburton Intermediate and see the progress on their long‑awaited redevelopment. Principal Brent Gray and Board Chair Mike Farrell shared updates on the project, including the need for modern classroom spaces and the efforts underway to advance the next stage. I was impressed with how the school has reconfigured spaces to adapt current teaching needs, with the new technology block acting as both a modern teaching space and a make-shift communal reading and library space. Ashburton Intermediate has been on a lengthy and sometimes challenging journey to upgrade its ageing facilities, including temporary classrooms that have long needed replacement. The school leadership continues to advocate strongly for progress, with the Ministry of Education assessing projects in the lead‑up to Budget 2026. Their commitment to achieving the best learning environment for students and staff is clear, and it was great to see that dedication firsthand, and I’ll continue working alongside them in discussion with the Ministry.
I recently visited Keith and the team at the YMCA in Timaru to learn more about their upcoming youth initiatives and the strong community collaboration behind them. It was great to hear insights from Jessica Thomas, Senior Manager for Youth & Community Development, and Katy Houstoun, Programme Development & Design Lead. They outlined their Pathways to Community Resilience initiative, which aims to bring community partners together and make the most of both philanthropic support and MYD partnership funding. We are fortunate to have such passionate people leading this outstanding youth-focused organisation.
(Photo: With Jessica, Katy, and Keith from the YMCA Central South Island team in Timaru)
Finally, it was a great way to wrap up the BlackBenchers traditional fixtures this season with the annual Parliament vs Media game at the Basin Reserve. The match was a fun conclusion to a busy season, bringing players together in good spirit and friendly competition. It’s always a highlight to finish the season in such an iconic venue, celebrating teamwork, community, and the long‑standing tradition of the fixture. Pretty cool to hit a couple of fours on the same ground that Baz got his 300…!
(Photo: BlackBenchers and Media teams at the Basin Reserve, Wellington)
I have a regular interview with Gareth on The Breeze every second Wednesday at 7:30am. You may also hear me on Hokonui Ashburton with Luke from time to time, often at short notice, so if you’ve got the radio on in the mornings across Mid Canterbury, tune in to Hokonui.
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 9am - 3pm. (Note: Mid Canterbury office closed Wednesdays).
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Take care,
James
MP for Rangitata
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