Halfway through the year
It's hard to believe we're already halfway through 2026.
June has been one of those months that seemed to move quickly, but with plenty happening along the way. Between the shift into winter and everything going on both in Wellington and across the electorate, it’s been a full and productive few weeks. There’s been a lot to take stock of, and plenty of good
work continuing across the board.
Works Commencing on Waioweka Gorge Road
One of the highlights of this month's Budget for our region is the Government's $75 million investment to strengthen State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge. This is something I've been advocating strongly for because I know just how critical this road is for our communities, freight operators, farmers and growers. I'm pleased to see the contracts signed, crews on site, and recovery works now underway to improve resilience, stabilise vulnerable sections and reduce future closures. I've also worked closely with NZTA and local industries to ensure the importance of keeping this route open is recognised, including securing a commitment that the road will no longer automatically close during an orange rain warning. This investment isn't just about repairing today's damage—it's about future-proofing one of the East Coast's most important transport links so our communities stay connected and our economy can keep moving.
Gisborne Hospital to feel relief
Another positive announcement for our region is the continued investment in strengthening healthcare services in Tairāwhiti. Gisborne Hospital will benefit from more doctors as part of the Government's plan to grow New Zealand's medical workforce and train more clinicians in the regions that need them most. We know attracting and retaining doctors has been an ongoing challenge for rural communities, so increasing the number of doctors working and training in our region is an important step toward improving access to healthcare and reducing pressure on frontline staff. It's about ensuring local families can access quality care closer to home, now and into the future.
National Party AGM
We had a great time last weekend at the National Party's 90th AGM in Lower Hutt. Seeing so many people revved up and ready for the 2026 campaign season. National is fixing the basics, building better education, a reinvigorated farming sector, health services, safer communities and a vastly more efficient resource management system,
A great weekend seeing colleagues and members together. Lots of exciting announcements and a strong hope for a strong future for
New Zealand.
Field Days
It was fantastic to be out at Fieldays this month, catching up with farmers, growers, rural businesses and the many organisations that support our primary industries. Events like Fieldays are about much more than showcasing the latest technology and innovation—they're an opportunity to hear directly from the people who keep our rural economy moving. Agriculture remains the backbone of the East Coast, and conversations like these are invaluable in understanding the challenges and opportunities facing our communities. It's always encouraging to see the resilience, ingenuity and optimism of our rural sector, and I'm proud to continue advocating for the people and industries that play such a vital role in our region and New Zealand's economy.
Out and About
One of the best parts of my role is spending time across the electorate hearing directly from the people I represent.
This month I was fortunate to attend:
Horticulture Leaders Meeting
Ahead of Fieldays, I had the pleasure of meeting with a number of horticulture industry representatives in Tairāwhiti to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing one of our region's most important sectors. These growers contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to our regional economy, supporting thousands of jobs, local businesses and ongoing innovation. While recent weather events and road closures have created significant challenges, what stood out most was the sector's resilience and optimism. We are incredibly fortunate to have some of the best growing conditions in the country, backed by hardworking farmers, orchardists and growers who continue to produce world-class products. It was great to hear about the work being done across the horticulture sector and to discuss how we can continue supporting its growth and success for the future.
Door-knocking with Young Nats
This month, we were fortunate to have the fantastic Central North Island Young Nats join us in Whakatāne for a weekend of door-knocking. It was great to have such an enthusiastic group on the ground, bringing plenty of energy and helping us connect with more than 1,300 households across the community.
Door knocking is one of the best ways to hear directly from people about the issues that matter most to them, and the conversations we had were incredibly valuable. A huge thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and to the residents who welcomed us at their doors. Your support and feedback are always appreciated, and it's encouraging to see so many young people getting involved and playing an active role in our democracy.
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Here are some highlights of work going through the House this month ...
GDP shows underlying economic strength:
GDP figures released this week confirm the economy had real momentum at the beginning of this year, with GDP growth for the March 2026 quarter at 0.8 per cent. (Beehive PR)
Government responds to Infrastructure Plan:
The Government has released its formal response to the independent National Infrastructure Plan, setting out how it will respond to the Infrastructure Commission’s sixteen recommendations. (Beehive PR)
Investment in Lower North Island Classrooms:
Education Minister Erica Stanford announced $10 million to deliver new classrooms across the lower North Island, taking the total spend on new classrooms to over $1.2 billion over the past 3 years. (Beehive PR)
Boost for predator control to protect endangered wildlife:
Threatened native wildlife will get a reprieve from predators with a $14.1 million boost to predator control funding. (Beehive PR)
Additional $14.5 million support for rough sleepers:
More support is on the way for people experiencing homelessness, with the Government expanding outreach and support services to six new locations, and extending proven initiatives already underway in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch. (Beehive PR)
Thank You!
Thank you to everyone who has welcomed me into your communities this month. Whether we've met at an event, visited your business or simply had a conversation while I was travelling around the electorate, I always appreciate hearing your ideas and concerns.
I'll continue working hard to ensure the East Coast has a strong voice in Parliament and delivers the opportunities our communities deserve.
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