As we continue working to build a more prosperous and secure future, National has outlined a number of key commitments that reflect our long-term vision for the country. From opening new opportunities for exporters and businesses, to delivering better support for parents and ensuring our laws keep pace with changing expectations, July was marked by a series of significant announcements.
Among the highlights, Todd McClay announced National’s plan to secure New Zealand’s next billion customers through new trade negotiations and expanded market access opportunities, helping drive exports, jobs and higher incomes. Nicola Willis and Nicola Grigg unveiled a commitment to extend paid parental leave from 26 to 30 weeks while giving families greater flexibility in how leave is taken, providing more choice and support for working parents. Paul Goldsmith also announced plans to modernise consent laws by introducing a clear “yes” standard, helping strengthen legal clarity and reinforce positive expectations around consent. Together, these announcements demonstrate National’s focus on growing the economy, backing families, and delivering practical reforms that make a difference for New Zealanders.
With Minister for the South Island James Meager checking out the operations at Akaroa King Salmon.
Working mums and dads will benefit from National’s plan to give parents more time with their babies and more choice over how they take paid parental leave. A re-elected National Government will gradually extend paid parental leave from 26 to 30 weeks by 2029, starting with an increase to 27 weeks in next year’s Budget and followed by further increases in the next two Budgets.
National will also give parents the option of taking some or all of their paid parental leave at the same time, in any order or combination up to the full entitlement. This is about better supporting working mums and dads as they do the vital work of raising children.
National wants strong families, supported to give their kids the best start in life. Our modernisation of paid parental leave will support families by giving them more financial breathing space when they take on caregiving responsibilities.
We have committed to secure New Zealand’s next billion customers by pursuing trade negotiations with seven new economies in the next five years.
National has a proud record of pushing open doors for New Zealand exporters in new and growing markets. Christopher Luxon promised National would get a free trade deal with India in our first term of government. We delivered, despite many saying it couldn’t be done.
A re-elected National Government will apply this same ambition and focus on securing New Zealand’s next billion customers.
The seven priority markets are Brazil, Switzerland, Argentina, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Uruguay and the European Free Trade Association (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway). Together, they represent almost 700 million people and more than US$5 trillion in combined GDP.
A re-elected National Government will modernise sexual consent laws to specify there must always be a "yes," rather than an absence of a "no". National is focused on fixing the basics in law and order, and modernising our consent laws is an important part of that. Unlike other jurisdictions we normally compare ourselves with, New Zealand law does not define what consent is. Rather, the Crimes Act provides a non-exhaustive list of what consent is not. If re-elected, National will change the law to specify that consent must be actively given, meaning there must be a 'yes' rather than the absence of a 'no.' That 'yes' can be communicated by words or actions. The change would align the law with what we've been telling our kids for a long time: that you need positive consent before sex, each and every time, rather than presuming it.
National will make it easier to build shops, offices and other commercial buildings by removing unnecessary delays and costs in the building consent system. Under National, qualified engineers will be able to sign off certain building work without needing a council inspection. National will also designate a specialist Building Consent Authority to engage through a single, nationally consistent pathway for consents.
The construction sector employs around 10 per cent of New Zealand’s workforce and makes up at least 6 per cent of GDP. But for too long, building has been slower and more expensive than it needs to be.
That is why National has made fixing the building and construction sector a priority in Government.
With Pat Coughlan at the Canterbury Region Master Builders 2026 House of the Year Awards Gala Dinner.
Catching up for coffee with fellow veterans at the Airforce Museum in Wigram.
- It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister for the South Island, James Meager, to Banks Peninsula last month. We visited Akaroa King Salmon to see firsthand the important role the business plays in supporting our local economy, creating quality jobs, and showcasing New Zealand's premium seafood to the world. We also hosted a well-attended public meeting in Christchurch, where James shared his vision for the future of the South Island, discussing the opportunities ahead for our communities, infrastructure, and regional growth. It was fantastic to see so many locals come along and be part of the conversation.
- I had the opportunity to speak on a cross-party panel at the Connecting for Change conference, discussing Members' Bills and how they can help shape policy and improve outcomes for New Zealanders. It was a valuable discussion with community leaders, social service organisations, and fellow MPs on the role Parliament can play in delivering positive change.
- The Canterbury Region House of the Year Gala Dinner at Te Pae Christchurch was a fantastic celebration of craftsmanship and innovation across the residential construction sector. With hundreds of guests in attendance, the event showcased the talent, dedication, and high standards that continue to shape the region’s building industry.
- I attended the Christchurch Mayor’s Cross-Party Breakfast this month, providing an opportunity for elected representatives from across the political spectrum to come together and discuss the issues shaping Christchurch’s future.
- It was an honour to attend the Korean War Ceasefire Commemoration Service in Christchurch and pay tribute to the brave New Zealanders who served during the Korean War. The ceremony provided an opportunity to reflect on their sacrifice, recognise the lasting contribution of our veterans, and acknowledge the importance of preserving the freedoms they fought to protect.
- It was fantastic to attend the University of Canterbury Re-O Week and represent the National Party, meeting students from a wide range of backgrounds and hearing firsthand about the issues, aspirations, and opportunities that matter most to them. The event was a great chance to connect with the next generation of leaders and discuss National’s vision for New Zealand’s future.
- I caught up with some fellow veterans at the Veterans Hub coffee catch up at Wigram Air Force Museum and connect with veterans, alongside VANZ CEO Alexander Brunt and Dr Mike O'Reilly. The Veterans Hub has become an important meeting place for veterans, built on the principle of “veterans supporting veterans,” providing opportunities for connection, camaraderie, and mutual support at the Air Force Museum.
Paying my respects to those who served in the Korean War with Mayor Phil Mauger.
Speaking on the Connecting for Change panel about my Members' Bill.
Thank you to everyone who joined me at my Seniors' Morning Teas at St Martins and Halswell. It was wonderful to welcome around 50 people across both events for a relaxed morning of conversation over a cup of tea. We had some great discussions on the issues that matter most to our community, and I always value the opportunity to hear directly from local residents and answer their questions. I look forward to seeing you again at future community events.
Chatting with constituents at my St Martins Seniors' Morning Tea.
Grabbing a cup and tea and chatting with constituents at Halswell.
1. Over 97,500 families benefiting from FamilyBoost: Over 97,500 New Zealand families have now received FamilyBoost payments to help with the cost of early childhood education. (Party PR)
2. Off-peak pricing to make power more affordable: New rules come into force today requiring the large power companies to provide customers with power plans that reflect the different costs of electricity throughout the day, giving customers more choice and helping to make power bills more affordable. (Party PR)
3. National backs hunters and anglers: A re-elected National Government will strengthen hunter-led conservation, protect access to the outdoors, and better recognise the value of hunting and fishing to New Zealand. (Party PR)
4. Latest figures continue year-on-year increase in jobseekers finding work: New figures reveal further year-on-year improvements in the number of New Zealanders moving off benefit and into work. (Party PR)
5. Manufacturing growth surges to five-year high: New Zealand's manufacturing sector has posted its strongest month of growth in nearly five years, with new data showing activity surging to its highest level since July 2021. (Party PR)
6. Backing Kiwi veterans with support extension: A further 1300 Defence veterans will have their service to New Zealand recognised through health, rehabilitation and financial support for deployment-related conditions. (Party PR)
At the Matariki dawn celebration at Takapūneke.
Catching up with Albie, the dolphin spotter at Akaroa Dolphins.
- It was a privilege to join Ōnuku Rūnanga and the Takapūneke Reserve Co-Governance Group for the Matariki dawn ceremony, marking the unveiling of a significant new pou, the installation of nine Matariki pou markers, and the opening of the next stage of the Takapūneke development. Set in a place of deep cultural and historical significance, the day was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on Matariki, learn more about the stories and heritage of Takapūneke, and celebrate the ongoing partnership and vision shaping this special site for future generations.
- It was great to spend some time in Little River and Akaroa recently for a coffee catch-up and meetings with members of the local community. I also enjoyed visiting the historic Pavitt Cottage near Akaroa, where I learned more about its fascinating history and significance to the area. Thank you to everyone who took the time to meet with me, and especially to Suky who gave me a wonderful tour of the cottage and shared its rich history.
- I recently had the pleasure of visiting Mastery Schools New Zealand's Arapaki campus and seeing firsthand the positive learning environment they have created for their students. It was fantastic to meet with staff and students, learn more about their innovative approach to education, and see the strong focus on helping every young person thrive. Thank you for the warm welcome and for taking the time to show me around your impressive campus.
- As always, I'll be out and about in August hosting coffee catch-ups, visiting businesses and door-knocking.
My visit to Mastery Schools NZ Arapaki campus with the Principal Jo Jessup and Dave Jessup.
Getting a tour from Suky at Pavitt Cottage near Akaroa.