Last week, the Budget was announced, with a strong focus on strengthening New Zealand’s economy while delivering what matters most to Kiwis. Despite global uncertainty, the economy continues to grow, with more jobs on the way and wages expected to rise faster than inflation, all helping ease cost of living pressures. A key priority in this Budget is restoring fiscal discipline. By cutting wasteful spending and finding savings across government, debt is being reduced and borrowing kept in check. This ensures taxes remain low, so people can keep more of what they earn. Our Government is also continuing to invest in essential frontline services. This includes funding for roads and transport resilience across regional networks, hospital upgrades, and stronger support for police and emergency services to keep communities safe. For regional New Zealand and the South Island, this means practical investment where it counts with better infrastructure, stronger health services, and support for local jobs and industries. Economic growth is expected to create new opportunities in the regions, backed by improved trade, energy security, and skills training. Budget 2026 is about fixing the basics and getting the books in order, reducing waste, and investing in frontline services, while building a strong and resilient future for New Zealand.
Construction of Ashburton’s long-awaited second bridge is now officially underway, marking a major milestone for Mid Canterbury after more than 15 years of planning and advocacy. The need for a resilient second crossing became undeniable following the devastating 2021 floods, which forced the closure of the existing SH1 bridge and left locals facing detours of over an hour while disrupting South Island freight for extended periods. This new bridge will strengthen the reliability of our transport network, ease congestion through Tinwald, and support future growth in the district. With construction now in motion and completion expected by the end of next year, this project represents a significant step forward for the region and a long-overdue investment in keeping our community connected.
Wilding pines remain one of the most significant environmental and economic threats facing the South Island. These invasive trees spread rapidly, taking over productive farmland, damaging sensitive water catchments, increasing wildfire risk, and altering the landscapes our country is known for. That’s why our Government’s additional $79 million investment in Budget 2026 is such a positive step, lifting total funding to $109 million over the next three years to accelerate control efforts across New Zealand. This is not only about protecting our environment, but also smart economics, with every $1 invested delivering more than $30 in benefits. Most importantly, it supports the farmers, contractors, iwi, councils, and volunteers doing the hard work on the ground. For more information, you can read the full press release here.
Last month, the Government began a programme of local government reform, giving councils a three month window to put forward their own proposals to simplify and strengthen local government through a new “Head Start” pathway. The aim is to reduce duplication, improve decision‑making, and deliver better value for communities by creating more efficient council structures. Both Timaru District Council and Ashburton District Council now have online feedback open, so you can have your say on these proposed changes, check them out here:
Delivering a fairer electricity market for Kiwi consumers: New Zealanders will benefit from new rules announced by the Electricity Authority to create a level playing field in the electricity market (Beehive PR)
Record health funding with patients at the centre: The Government is fixing the basics and building the future of New Zealand’s healthcare system, focused on delivering for patients and supported by record investment in health (Beehive PR)
Loans to help businesses transition away from gas: A new initiative will help businesses transition from gas, protecting jobs and securing New Zealand’s dwindling gas supplies for other users (Beehive PR)
Anti-stalking laws take effect: Stalking is now a criminal offence punishable by up to five years in prison (Beehive PR)
Budget 2026 shores up maritime security: The Government is investing in drone systems, critical ship maintenance and work to replace our aging naval fleet as it bolsters New Zealand’s maritime defensive and offensive capability (Beehive PR)
Budget delivers $7 billion capital investment boost: A $7 billion capital investment in Budget 2026 will strengthen the resilience of New Zealand’s infrastructure and support thousands of jobs (Beehive PR)
Boosting ambulance services across New Zealand: More ambulance crews, upgraded technology, and stronger frontline support will strengthen ambulance services across New Zealand, enabling quick and effective responses to emergencies (Beehive PR)
Details of NCEA replacement confirmed: New Zealand’s new senior secondary qualifications will provide clearer, more credible recognition of student achievement (Beehive PR)
Literacy and maths at forefront of new investment: Raising achievement and lifting student performance in reading, writing and maths is at the centre of today’s Budget 2026 investment in education (Beehive PR)
Bill to enable digital drivers licences passes third reading: Legislation to make New Zealand’s transport regulatory system fit for purpose has passed its third reading (Beehive PR)
Rail infrastructure fully funded: The Government has committed up to $1.075 billion to KiwiRail’s planned network investments between 2027-2030, alongside $106.9 million to continue critical metropolitan rail infrastructure renewals (Beehive PR)
Investing in Secondary Achievement: Budget 2026 invests around $2.1 billion to continue building the foundations of a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for success (Beehive PR)
If you are interested here is a link to read the PR Releases relating to my Ministerial portfolios.
2 Jun Alpine Building opening event, Timaru
3 Jun South Canterbury Chamber and Mackenzie Tourism Mid-winter event, Tekapo
5 Jun Timaru Boys’ High School Prefects event, Timaru
8 Jun Grasshoppers Club, Ashburton
10-12 Jun Field Days, Hamilton
14-20 Jun National Volunteer Week
15-19 Jun Scrutiny Week, Parliament
20-21 Jun National Party Conference, Wellington
23 Jun NZ Search and Rescue Awards, Wellington
Visit the following sites for more information on events happening in our region:
The New Zealand Century Farm and Station Awards in Lawrence were once again a highlight on the rural calendar, offering a special chance to recognise the families who have dedicated generations to the land. It was a privilege to attend for a second time and to join in celebrating the resilience, commitment, and pride that define farming families across the country. With 36 families honoured this year, including several reaching the remarkable milestone of 150 years in the same family, the stories shared were a powerful reminder of the deep connections that underpin rural New Zealand.
Events like this matter because they acknowledge more than just longevity, they celebrate legacy. They recognise families who have adapted through changing seasons, markets, and challenges, all while maintaining a strong sense of stewardship for their land. It was especially meaningful to see local connections recognised, including Roger and Hayden Cartwright of Mill Farm near Pleasant Point, who received a Sesquicentennial Award, and my colleague Miles Anderson, MP for Waitaki, whose family farm has been held since 1894. These achievements, and many others, reflect the enduring strength of our rural communities and the vital role farming continues to play in shaping both our economy and our way of life.
(Photo: With the Cartwright family in Lawrence)
We’ve wrapped up another great Youth Week, which kicked off with a fantastic launch at Parliament. It was a great opportunity to recognise the valuable contribution young people make in our communities every day through their energy, leadership, and fresh ideas. Our Government is proud to support Ara Taiohi, the Peak Body for Youth Development, to deliver a range of youth-led events and internships, creating more opportunities for young people to have their voices heard and their ideas and ambitions supported.
(Photo: Youth Week at Parliament)
Finally, I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dame Jools Topp, a true New Zealand icon who brought so much joy to so many. Through her music, humour, and authenticity, Jools helped define a uniquely Kiwi voice that resonated across generations.
I’ve been fortunate to spend time fishing the Rakaia river with her twin sister, Dame Lynda. My sincere condolences go to Lynda and all of Jools’ family and friends at this difficult time.
I have a regular interview with Gareth on The Breeze every second Wednesday at 8:45am. 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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