Since my last newsletter there have been a few exciting updates from me!
I’m thrilled to have been asked by Christopher Luxon to serve as Minister for the Environment. It’s a real privilege to be appointed to this additional role alongside my other portfolios and being MP for Selwyn.
I have also been re-selected as National's candidate for Selwyn. While we've achieved so much in the past six years for our district, I am committed to returning a National Government so Selwyn receives the further investment it deserves, and I will continue working tirelessly to earn your support and remain your local MP.
Government announcements:
There have been some new changes announced that could help reduce the burden on the family budget.
WOF/COF changes
National is helping kiwis save time, money and hassle by changing how often newer cars need a warrant of fitness.
The changes bring New Zealand vehicle inspections up to date with today’s modern vehicle fleet. At the same time inspections are being expanded to include modern safety systems, and we’re strengthening penalties for those who don’t comply.
Most light cars under 14 years old will move from yearly to two-yearly WoFs and new cars will get their second WoF after four years instead of three. Older vehicles, motorcycles, and light rental vehicles move from six-monthly to yearly inspections.
We listened to public feedback on the proposed changes where a large majority of people supported reducing inspections for lower risk vehicles. These changes modernise outdated rules, and will save Selwyn residents time and money without compromising on vehicle safety.
Community pharmacy changes
From June, community pharmacists will be able to play a bigger role in treating a range of common conditions, making it easier and more affordable for families to get the care they need close to home.
Health New Zealand is proposing that participating pharmacists be able to provide funded medicines for children and their families for pain and fever management, oral rehydration, and common conditions such as scabies, head lice, and conjunctivitis. The proposal also covers treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections and emergency contraception.
We know that many families here in Selwyn are facing long wait times to see a GP, and this can be especially frustrating for parents trying to get timely care for their children. These changes are about making better use of community pharmacies as a convenient, additional option for the treatment of straightforward conditions.
New cancer transfusion centre for Selwyn
Rolleston is set to receive a new infusion centre by 2028 for those receiving cancer treatments as part of a nationwide rollout.
Our focus is on ensuring patients can access cancer treatment sooner and closer to where they live. That means not only funding new medicines, but making sure the health system has the capacity to deliver them.
This expansion puts patients at the centre, enabling more New Zealanders to start treatment earlier, receive care closer to home, and spend less time travelling for appointments.
Other news
- Historic FTA with India signed - Beehive PR
- New variable speed limits for Darfield, Glentunnel and Windwhistle schools - NZTA PR
- More flexibility for High-county farms - Beehive PR
- Fuel relief for school communities and replacing diesel boilers for 70 schools - Beehive PR
- Additional 90 million litres of diesel to boost NZ's fuel reserves - Beehive PR
Out and about
Selwyn Business Briefing
Earlier this month Business Canterbury and Selwyn District Council hosted a Selwyn Business Briefing.
It was unsurprising to hear from Regional Economist Benje Patterson that our district is one of the leading growing economies in the country. We know what a powerhouse we are but it’s good to hear it from the experts!
Meeting with Arable Farmers
Selwyn and Canterbury are home to some of New Zealand’s largest food producers but our arable farmers have had a rough season caused by a combination of trade conditions, low prices and poor weather.
Our government backs our farmers, so Ministers Mark Patterson, Mike Butterick and I have met with sector leaders to better understand the issues and see how we can help.
By supporting the arable sector - which is start of our food and production chain - we improve our exports which boosts our economy which benefits the whole country. All starting from our local farms like this one in Leeston.
Anzac Day
To commemorate Anzac Day I attended Burnham Military Camp’s Dawn service, Dunsandel’s service and I spoke at the Rolleston service.
This Anzac Day will be the first time that all those who have served New Zealand in times of war will be formally recognised as part of official commemorations under the law, after the Anzac Day Act was amended earlier this year.
Thank you to all of those who serve and have served in our Armed Forces for your sacrifices to keep our country safe.
Upcoming Events:
Coffee Catchups:
Glentunnel
- 11:00am, Monday 4 May
- Cafe on the Green, 2597 Homebush Road
Kirwee
- 11:00am, Wednesday 6 May
- Thirsty Acres, Corner of West Coast Road and Courtenay Road
Rural Health Public Meeting
Join me alongside National's health spokespeople Hon Simeon Brown and Hon Matt Doocey, to discuss everything rural health.
Pink Ribbon Morning Tea
Just announced! I'm teaming up with the Selwyn Parenting Network to host a Pink Ribbon Morning Tea to raise money for the Breast Cancer Foundation later this month.
You can make a donation for entry or just for the good cause at my fundraising page
Make sure to RSVP to nicola.griggMP@parliament.govt.nz
Here to Help
As always, my team and I are here and available to help.
You can get in touch with us by emailing Nicola.GriggMP@parliament.govt.nz, phone 03 344 2800, or pop into the office in Rolleston Square between Monday and Fridays, 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Kind regards,
Hon Nicola Grigg
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