Meager Matters | November 2026

03 November 2026James Meager

Welcome to my November newsletter.

I made the most of the public holiday and cast my vote on the first day of early voting last Monday. Every election is an opportunity to help shape the future of our district and country, and I encourage everyone to get out and vote. Our democracy is strongest when people participate, so if you haven't voted yet, make a plan to have your say.

For the list of advanced voting polling places, you can find them at - www.vote.nz

When National came into Government two and a half years ago, Labour had left the country in deep trouble. The future did not look bright for Kiwis. The economy was damaged, inflation was at a 32 year high, mortgage repayments had skyrocketed, wages had stagnated, there were hundreds of ram raids a year, violent crime was rising, there was greater welfare dependency and children’s achievement was plummeting. National has a long-term plan to turn that around. We’re making careful choices to create jobs and lift wages, say no to new taxes, stay tough on crime, and deliver the education and health services you deserve. By sticking to National's plan there will be a more secure future for all New Zealanders.


Recent Key Announcements:

National’s 100 Day Plan to secure our future (National PR)

National’s plan for parents (National PR)

National’s plan to secure New Zealand’s future (National PR)

No new taxes under National (National PR)

Building infrastructure for the future (National PR)

Backing NZ’s farmers and growers (National PR)

Getting Kiwis off welfare and into work (National PR)

National’s plan for young adults (National PR)

National’s plan for retirement (National PR)

New policy is being announced every day in the run-up to 7 November. You can stay updated here.

If you are interested here is a link to read the PR Releases relating to my Ministerial portfolios.

 

Upcoming events:

2 Nov Pendarves Young Farmers, Rakaia

3 Nov National Science Technology Roadshow, Timaru

3 Nov Timaru Boys' High School Prize-Giving, Timaru

4 Nov MountainView High School Year 11 Prize-Giving, Timaru

4 Nov Timaru Girls' High School Prize-Giving, Timaru

4 Nov JP Association AGM, Timaru

5 Nov National Science Technology Roadshow, Ashburton

5 Nov Mt Hutt College Senior Prize-Giving, Methven

7 Nov Election Day

Visit the following sites for more information on events happening in our region:

South Canterbury Events Website

Ashburton District Events Website

Highlights:

It was fantastic to welcome the National Party campaign bus to our region on Monday as we enter the final week of the election campaign. A huge thank you to everyone who came out to wave, say hello, display signs, and show their support throughout the day. Your enthusiasm and encouragement helped create a real sense of momentum right across Mid and South Canterbury.

The campaign bus travelled through Rakaia, Ashburton, Orari, Temuka, Timaru, Pleasant Point and Geraldine, giving us the opportunity to connect with hundreds of local residents, hear about the issues that matter most, and share our vision for the future. It was especially pleasing to see so many supporters joining us at various stops along the way, demonstrating the strong community spirit that makes our region such a great place to live.

A sincere thank you to all the local businesses who welcomed us throughout the day. From providing meeting points and refreshments to creating opportunities to connect with locals, your hospitality and support helped make the campaign bus tour a success.

I was also pleased to be joined by Miles Anderson MP and a dedicated team of volunteers and supporters who worked tirelessly throughout the campaign. Elections are very much a team effort, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who gave their time, energy and support over the course of the campaign. 

With only days remaining before voting closes, the bus tour was a great reminder of the importance of getting out and having a say. Thank you again to everyone who welcomed us along the route and helped make the day such a success. Your support was greatly appreciated.

Recent Interviews:

Vote 2026 – Otago University Student Interview


Contact the team:

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.

Please feel free to share this update with others, or they're welcome to subscribe at national.org.nz/jamesmeager.

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