Weekly Update with Dana
It has been another busy week across the East Coast, with plenty happening both locally and in Wellington.
There are three issues I particularly wanted to highlight this week: the growing list of new taxes being proposed by Labour and the parties it could govern with, the significant investment being made in new social housing across our communities, and the ongoing campaign to get our roads the attention and investment they desperately need.
1. The tax grab New Zealanders can’t afford
As we head towards the election, New Zealanders deserve to know what the different parties are proposing — and importantly, how they plan to pay for their promises.
Labour, Te Pāti Māori, the Greens and TOP have all put forward a range of new taxes. Taken together, there are nine new taxes on the table.
This would be a massive tax grab on New Zealanders, with the potential to hit families, businesses, investors and those working hard to get ahead.
National believes New Zealanders already pay enough tax. We want people to be able to keep more of what they earn, while ensuring Government spending is responsible and sustainable.
Growing the economy is the best way to create more jobs, lift wages and improve living standards. That is why National is focused on reducing waste, keeping taxes under control and creating the conditions for businesses to invest and grow.
2. More homes for the East Coast
There is some really positive news for our communities, with funding confirmed for 133 new social homes across the Eastern Bay of Plenty and 118 new social and affordable homes in Gisborne.
We are delivering housing where it is needed most.
For families and individuals struggling to find a safe and affordable place to live, new social housing can make an enormous difference. This investment will provide more people across our region with a secure place to call home.
As your local MP, I will continue to advocate for the investment our communities need and make sure the East Coast remains firmly on the Government’s radar.
3. Fighting for better roads
I know how frustrated many of you are with the condition of our roads, and I have been making sure those concerns are being heard.
Over the past week, I have received a large number of messages from constituents about the state of Tiniroto Road, which is in a terrible condition in places.
I raised the issue again with Gisborne District Council and have been working alongside Napier MP Katie Nimon, given the road crosses electorate boundaries.
Following our calls for action, Council carried out an urgent inspection of Tiniroto Road. The inspection confirmed many pavement failures requiring immediate attention, particularly towards the Wairoa boundary.
Council has now directed maintenance crews to address priority defects and urgent safety issues, with temporary repairs and traffic management being put in place. More substantial rehabilitation will be undertaken when weather and construction conditions allow.
I will also continue to raise the issue with NZTA and push for the investment needed to address the condition of our roads properly.
In the meantime, please take care on Tiniroto Road and continue reporting issues through the Antenno app. The more problems that are formally reported, the better the picture we have of what needs to be fixed.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to get in touch and bring these issues to my attention. I will keep pushing to make sure our communities get the infrastructure they deserve.
4. Main announcements from this week:
Next steps on the Waitematā Harbour Crossing:
The Coalition Government has made decisions on the next steps for the project. (Beehive PR)
Walls go up – classrooms calm down:
The Government is investing a further $31.3 million to create calmer, less disruptive learning spaces in more than 600 classrooms at nearly 90 schools. (Beehive PR)
Thailand Prime Minister to visit New Zealand:
Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will make an official visit to New Zealand this week, accompanied by a delegation of leading Thai business representatives. (Beehive PR)
State of Origin 2027 date confirmed as Major Events momentum continues:
The countdown is officially on for New Zealand’s first-ever State of Origin match, with the historic fixture now confirmed as Game Two, 16 June 2027 at Auckland's Eden Park. (Beehive PR)
Te Here-ā-Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Bill passes third reading:
Te Here-ā-Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Bill passed its third reading in Parliament today, finalising the restoration of approximately 3000 hectares of land at the top of the South Island to its rightful owners. (Beehive PR)
GET UPDATES
