Nimon's News - July 2024

31 Jul 2024
Katie Nimon

Kia Ora everyone!

Welcome to my monthly newsletter.

Your update about what's happening in the Napier electorate, New Zealand Parliament and across our country! 

In this issue:

  • Recent Wairoa weather events
  • Hawke's Bay Expressway
  • Highlights this month
  • Policy announcements
  • What's happened in the house
  • Important dates 

 

Recent Wairoa weather events 

On Wednesday, 26th June East Coast, Napier and Tukituki electorates were impacted by severe weather events. Thousands were left powerless, and hundreds were evacuated from their homes as swells, tides and rivers rose across Hawke's Bay.

More than 400 properties in the Wairoa District were affected by flooding with more than 100 homes significantly impacted.

The Government contributed $300,000 to Mayoral Relief Fund to help communities in Hastings, Wairoa and Gisborne impacted with a further $3,500,000 to the Wairoa Mayoral Relief Fund to assist the community with recovery and rebuild efforts.

Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery Mark Mitchell visited Wairoa several times to get a further sense of the impacts, recovery operations, and to meet with affected community members. I worked hard to get home from Wellington to Wairoa to be with the Minister to assess ground situation and see extent of damage to properties and region.

Charity and community organisations helping Wairoa

In addition to Government efforts, local community organisations such as Rapid Relief Team (RRT) were in Wairoa. They helped with cleaning up after flooding. Gazebos were set up with warm food to share with the local communities.   

BAPS Charity assisted with mobilisation of 10 volunteers to help with recovery work and provided some supplies like personal hygiene kit boxes and food essentials.  New Zealand • BAPS Charities.

 

Wairoa community concerns and Government support

The Wairoa community has raised significant concerns about the management of the Wairoa River bar and the impact this had on flooding of properties in the district.

The Government is committed to addressing concerns raised by the local community.  A qualified independent reviewer is leading an urgent and targeted review into the flood response. The review will look at whether there was adequate monitoring of the state of the Wairoa River bar; whether correct decisions were made in a timely way; and whether there were any other actions that could have been taken.

The review is expected to take around four weeks, with findings and recommendations to be presented to the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, Wairoa District Council and Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa Trust in August 2024. 

Hawke's Bay Expressway 

Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced the finalisation of the Government Policy Statement on land transport (GPS 2024). 

The Government is investing $22 billion in transport over the next three years to boost productivity and support economic growth. This is the largest transport investment in New Zealand’s history.

Government is bringing back highly successful Roads of National Significance (RoNS) programme, with 17 projects across the country. 

In the first phase, there are seven RoNS projects. I am thrilled to see the Hawke’s Bay Expressway amongst them. Projects are expected to begin procurement, enabling works and construction in the next three years. 

 

 

Highlights this month

Meetings and events 

July is the month when the Parliament is in recess for three weeks. This is the time to reflect on the work done so far and plan for next months. I spent some time with my family before getting back to my electorate. I had few community meetings, spoke at events and met with local constituents at my office.

I had attended 20 formal events and met with individuals, organisations, and key stakeholders in Napier electorate. Events ranged from Minister’s and MP visits, Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce hosting Finance Minister, Napier Winter Art Deco, SuperBlues RSA in Taradale and Chrystal Culvert re-opening in Tutira.

I regularly meet with our Mayors in the Napier electorate to learn about local issues which our city and region are facing. 

Local community concerns 

This month, we had 45 community members approaching our office for support.

 Some themes from this month:

  • Local Government
  • Housing
  • Kainga Ora
  • Justice of the Peace applications
  • Roading
  • Civil Defence

We were able to listen and assist our constituents in finding further information to help them address their concerns.  If there was something you were needing support with, please don't hesitate to contact our office or come into 16 Carlyle Street, Napier.

Environment Select Committee

As part of my role on the Environment Select Committee, public hearings on the Fast-track Approvals Bill have now concluded. 

The Committee is gathering information and officials will prepare a report on the bill for the house with its recommended changes. This report is due on 18 Oct 2024. 

You can watch public meetings of the Environment Select Committee here. 

Education and Workforce Select Committee

As part of my role on the Education and Workforce Select Committee, I am listening to public hearings on Education and Training Amendment Bill. The public consultation on this bill closed on Mon, 29th July 2024. 

You can watch public meetings of the Education and Workforce Select Committee here.

 

Key events 

Hon. Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance at Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce

As part of Budget 2024 announcements, The Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Hawke’s Bay Regional Recovery Agency organised an exclusive event hosting Hon Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance.

It was attended by 80 people from the Hawkes’s Bay business community. Minister Willis spoke to the full audience, sharing key updates from the first budget from the new coalition government.

 

Minister Louise Upston in Hawkes' Bay visiting Hohepa 

We warmly welcomed Louise Upston, Minister of Social Development and Employment Minister, Disability Issues, Community and Voluntary Sector, and child poverty reduction, to the region.

As part of the Ministers visit to Hawke's Bay, the Minister included a visit to Hohepa in Poraiti. The Minister had a tour of the Poraiti site, checking out the school, the new residential homes and even had a taste of some of the award-winning cheese.

 

Princess Alexandra Retirement Village celebrated their 20th anniversary

Residents at Princess Alexandra Retirement Village celebrated their 20th anniversary. I couldn't be there, but it was wonderful to celebrate the occasion with the residents and team at the village.

A celebratory plaque was unveiled, and the tiara-bedecked birthday cake was cut. It is great to see our senior residents active and enjoying life at Princess Alexandra Village.

 

7 Days - TV3

 In something different, I had the exciting opportunity to appear on 7 Days in their “Yes Minister” segment. I think I did quite well and had a great laugh – hopefully you got to watch!

 

Winter Art Deco Napier festival

Winter Deco Festival was a three-day weekend event from 19 - 21 July 2024.  A brilliant event produced by Art Deco Trust with the support of Napier City Council and various event sponsors, festival partners, media and funding partners. 

This a one of our major events in Napier which attracts people from all over the country. We have a Summer Art Deco festival in Feb each year. 

A winter celebration buzzing with vintage cars, swinging jazz bars, and the heritage trail of light! Events range from family fun to nostalgic candlelit charm; this festival promises something enchanting for everyone. People wear their stylish tweed, spats, and cloche hats for the best midwinter festival.

 

Chrystal Culvert re-opening in Tutira

This is the first major infrastructure rebuild project of Hasting District Council.  This culvert was completely washed away during Cyclone Gabrielle. This significant road is now open and safe for local community to use.

Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst, Hasting District Council officially cut the ribbon for Chrystal Culvert.  Along with her were Tania Kerr, Deputy Mayor, Carl Bates, MP for Whanganui and me.  We were supported by the local community of Tutira, Chrystal family, Downer construction, Stantec consultants and contractors. 

 

There were representatives from the Maungaharuru-Tangitu Trust, with Matua Bevan Taylor leading the Karakia. It was a cold day with light rain, but the spirits were high. 

Minister Tama Potoka visits St Joseph’s Māori Girls College

Hon Tama Potaka, Minister for Māori Development visited Napier to inaugurate the opening of the new hostel at St Joseph’s Māori Girl’s College. It was a privilege to attend the opening with the Minister.

An event well attended with great hospitality by Dame Georgina Kingi and the kaimahi, rangatahi and whānau of the college. A huge milestone in the history of the college.

St Joseph’s is a Māori and Catholic Year 7 - Year 13 Girls Composite Boarding and Day School.

 

SuperBlues at RSA in Taradale

I attended the SuperBlues at RSA, Taradale. SuperBlues are a group of socially active New Zealanders aged 60+ who work collaboratively with National MPs to promote solutions to issues that will enhance a quality environment for all senior citizens.

From Kaitaia in the north to Coromandel in the east; New Plymouth in the west and Invercargill in the south, Superblues work with local National Members of Parliament to keep issues confronting senior citizens at the forefront of political thinking.

This month's guest speaker was Carl Bates, MP for Whanganui who spoke about his life, career and journey from South Africa to NZ Parliament. He gave an overview of Whanganui electorate and great work done by the locals. It is a place for old, retired people and overseas returnees but is also famous for its manufacturing industries, farmers and cheese.

Morning tea was enjoyed by all, and I announced the winner of raffle ticket draw at the end.

 

Future Focus morning at Napier Girls' High School

Future Focus morning at Napier Girls' High School , a morning where year 10 students had the opportunity to listen to industry leaders talk about their chosen career path - what they do, what got them there and everything in between.

Acknowledging that 13 years old is quite young to decide what career to pick, it was excellent to sit on the panel with some inspiring local women and talk about how having the ability to tell stories, communicate effectively and build relationships can take you anywhere - tourism, journalism, public relations and even politics.

Some other great events and meetings that I've attended. 

  • Taste of Taradale - Cultura Winter Fest 
  • Napier Repair Cafe 
  • Esk Valley Community Drop-in-Day  
  • Visit to Waverley House

 

Update on Devil's Elbow - work in progress

I was on my way to Chrystal Culvert re-opening in Tutira. On our way, we saw the progress made by construction workers on Devil's elbow. 

 

Recent Policy Announcements 

Law & Order, Social Development

1. Government introduces roadside drug testing legislation - read the Beehive PR

The Government has introduced legislation that will enable roadside drug testing as part of our commitment to improve road safety. Alcohol and drugs are the number one contributing factor in fatal road crashes in New Zealand. 

2. Government acknowledges courageous abuse survivors - read the Beehive PR

The Government has acknowledged the nearly 2,400 courageous survivors who shared their experiences during the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State and Faith-Based Care. 

3. Government acknowledges torture at Lake Alice - read the Beehive PR

For the first time, the Government is formally acknowledging some children and young people at Lake Alice Psychiatric Hospital experienced torture. 

4. Paid Parental Leave improvements pass first reading - read the Beehive PR

The bill has passed its first reading will improve parental leave settings and give non-biological parents more flexibility as primary carer for their child. 

5. Government launches Military Style Academy Pilot - read the Beehive PR

The Government launched the Military Style Academy Pilot at Te Au rere a te Tonga Youth Justice residence in Palmerston North.

6. Benefit stats highlight need for welfare reset - read the Beehive PR

The coalition Government is providing extra support for job seekers to ensure as many Kiwis as possible are in work or preparing for work. 

7. Experts to advise Minister on Oranga Tamariki - read the Beehive PR

The Oranga Tamariki Ministerial Advisory Board has been re-established by the Minister for Children, Karen Chhour. 

8. 4000 more job seekers to get case manager - read the Beehive PR

A new over-the-phone employment case management service will see thousands more job seekers under the age of 25 supported to find work, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston has announced. 

9. Ministers reveal consequences for unruly Kāinga Ora tenants - read the Beehive PR

Ministers are pleased to see Kāinga Ora taking a stronger approach to managing unruly, threatening or abusive tenants, Housing Minister Chris Bishop and Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka say. 

10. Government creates MAG for retail crime victims - read the Beehive PR

The coalition Government is establishing a Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) for the victims of retail crime, as part of its plan to restore law and order, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Associate Justice Minister. 

11. Kāinga Ora board refreshed, new Letter of Expectations issued - read the Beehive PR

The board of Kāinga Ora – Homes & Community has been refreshed and Ministers have issued a new Letter of Expectations demanding better financial performance, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says.

 

Education

1. Students’ needs at centre of new charter school adjustments - read the Beehive PR

Proposed changes to the Education and Training Amendment Bill will ensure charter schools have more flexibility to negotiate employment agreements and are equipped with the right teaching resources.

2. School attendance continues to increase - read the Beehive PR

Provisional school attendance data for Term two 2024 released has shown more students are back in class compared to last year, with 53.1 per cent of students regularly attending, compared with 47 per cent in Term two 2023. 

3. Migrant school leavers to get part-time work rights - read the Beehive PR

The coalition Government is providing migrant school leavers with greater opportunities, by increasing access to part-time work rights for those awaiting the outcome of a family residence application, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford announced. 

4. Funding to support use of NZ Sign Language - read the Beehive PR

Seven projects have received government funding totalling nearly $250,000 to maintain and promote the use of New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL).

5. Huge opportunity for educators and students as charter school applications open - read the Beehive PR

Associate Education Minister David Seymour says it is another important step towards establishing charter schools, with the application process officially opening. 

6. NZQA Board appointments - read the Beehive PR

Education Minister Erica Stanford has today announced three appointments to the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). 

7. Prime Minister’s scholarships awarded - read the Beehive PR

New Zealand’s ability to engage with key trading partners is set to grow further with 20 scholarships awarded for groups to gain education experiences across Asia and Latin America, Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds says.  

8. Govt delivers consistency for assessing Kiwi kids - read the Beehive PR

The Coalition Government is delivering consistency in student assessment, giving parents certainty on how their child’s doing at school, Education Minister Erica Stanford says. 

 

Transport & Infrastructure

1. Government upgrading Lower North Island commuter rail - read the Beehive PR

The Coalition Government is investing $802.9 million into the Wairarapa and Manawatū rail lines as part of a funding agreement with the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), KiwiRail, and the Greater Wellington and Horizons Regional Councils to deliver more reliable services for commuters in the lower North Island. 

2. Accelerating Northland Expressway - read the Beehive PR

The Coalition Government is accelerating work on the new four-lane expressway between Auckland and Whangārei as part of its Roads of National Significance programme, with an accelerated delivery model to deliver this project faster and more efficiently. 

3. Nine priority bridge replacements to get underway - read the Beehive PR

The Government has welcomed news the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has begun work to replace nine priority bridges across the country to ensure our state highway network remains resilient, reliable, and efficient for road users. 

4. Delivering 24-hour pothole repairs - read the Beehive PR

Kiwis and freight operators will benefit from the Coalition Government delivering on its commitment to introduce targets that will ensure a greater number of potholes on our state highways are identified and fixed within 24 hours. 

5. New speed camera signs to improve safety - read the Beehive PR

The Government is welcoming the rollout of new speed camera signs for fixed speed cameras to encourage drivers to check their speeds, improving road safety and avoiding costly speeding tickets. 

6. Taking action to reduce road cones - read the Beehive PR

The Coalition Government is taking action to reduce expenditure on road cones and temporary traffic management (TTM) while maintaining the safety of workers and road users, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. 

7. Roads of National Significance moving at pace - read the Beehive PR

Transport Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed news that the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is getting on with the Government’s first seven Roads of National Significance (RoNS) projects expected to begin procurement, enabling works and construction in the next three years. 

8. Government to tackle driver licence wait times - read the Beehive PR

The Government is rolling out changes to the driver licencing system to tackle the unacceptable wait times facing New Zealanders trying to sit their driver licence tests across the country. 

 

Regulatory & Digital Technology

 

1. Regulating online casinos approach - read the Beehive PR

The Government has agreed to a high-level approach to regulating online casinos designed to minimise harm, support tax collection, and provide consumer protections to New Zealanders.

2. New satellite technology will lead to fewer flight cancellations- read the Beehive PR

New satellite technology that significantly improves GPS accuracy, has reached an important milestone, with two 11-metre satellite dishes switched on by Land Information Minister Chris Penk. 

3. More young people learning about digital safety - read the Beehive PR

Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Government’s online safety website for children and young people has reached one million page views. The 'Keep It Real' Online website has plenty of advice on how to talk to your kids about these issues as well as information on third party controls available to families. 

4. Employers and payroll providers ready for tax changes - read the Beehive PR

New Zealand’s payroll providers have successfully prepared to ensure 3.5 million individuals will, from Wednesday 31st July, be able to keep more of what they earn each pay. 

5. Kiwis having their say on first regulatory review - read the Beehive PR

After receiving more than 740 submissions in the first 20 days, Regulation Minister David Seymour is asking the Ministry for Regulation to extend engagement on the early childhood education regulation review by an extra two weeks. 

6. Rebuilding the economy through better regulation - read the Beehive PR

Two Bills designed to improve regulation and make it easier to do business have passed their first reading in Parliament. 

7. Open banking and open electricity on the way - read the Beehive PR

New legislation paves the way for greater competition in sectors such as banking and electricity. The Customer and Product Data Bill, which had its first reading, is an important step for improving the regulation of digital markets. 

8. Charity lotteries to be permitted to operate online - read the Beehive PR

Lotteries for charitable purposes, such as those run by the Heart Foundation, Coastguard NZ, and local hospices, will soon be allowed to operate online permanently. 

9. Government provides support to tackle tax debt and compliance - read the Beehive PR

New compliance funding in Budget 2024 will ensure Inland Revenue is better equipped to catch individuals who are evading their tax obligations, Revenue Minister Simon Watts says. 

10. Upgrading system resulting in faster passport processing - read the Beehive PR

Acting Internal Affairs Minister David Seymour says wait times for passports are reducing, as the Department of Internal Affairs (the Department) reports the highest ever monthly figure for digital uptake in passport applications. 

11. 500th RCG mobile tower delivered at Anawhata - read the Beehive PR

The Government has marked a major milestone for rural connectivity at the official opening of the 500th RCG mobile tower in Anawhata today, Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

12. Government taking action to support media sector - read the Beehive PR

The Government is taking immediate action to support New Zealand’s media and content production sectors, while it develops a long-term reform programme, Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

 

Health

1. Backing mental health services on the West Coast - read the Beehive PR

Construction of a new mental health facility at Te Nikau Grey Hospital in Greymouth is one step closer. This $27 million facility shows the Government is delivering on its promise to boost mental health care and improve front line services. 

2.  Commissioner replaces Health NZ Board - read the Beehive PR

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced that in response to serious concerns around oversight, overspend and a significant deterioration in financial outlook, the Board of Health New Zealand will be replaced with a Commissioner. 

3. Peer Support Specialists rolled out in hospitals - read the Beehive PR

Five hospitals have been selected to trial a new mental health and addiction peer support service in their emergency departments as part of the Government’s commitment to increase access to mental health and addiction support for New Zealanders. 

4.  Expectations set for improved medicines access - read the Beehive PR

Associate Health Minister David Seymour says he has set clear expectations for Pharmac around delivering the medicines and medical technology that Kiwis need. 

5. National Bowel Screening Programme reaches 2 million life-saving screening kits - read the Beehive PR

The National Bowel Screening Programme has reached a significant milestone, with two million home bowel screening kits distributed across the country, Health Minister Dr Shane Reti announced today.  

6. Consultation begins on new cancer medicines - read the Beehive PR

Associate Health Minister for Pharmac David Seymour says today’s announcement that Pharmac is opening consultation on new cancer medicines is great news for Kiwi cancer patients and their families. 

7. Targets will drive improvement in mental health - read the Beehive PR

Reflecting the Government’s priority to improve the public services Kiwis rely on, including mental health care, Minister for Mental Health, Matt Doocey has announced five mental health and addiction targets. 

8. Applications for new innovation fund opened - read the Beehive PR

Applications open today for the Government’s first round of the new $10 million Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey has announced.

9. Free cervical screening for at risk women to continue - read the Beehive PR

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has confirmed that cervical screening will continue to be free for women with higher risk of cervical cancer. 

 

Regional Growth and Economy

1. Experimental vineyards futureproofs wine industry - read the Beehive PR

An experimental vineyard which will help futureproof the wine sector has been opened in Blenheim. The research that will be produced at the Experimental Future Vineyard will help ensure New Zealand’s wine sector is prepared for challenges such as changing weather patterns. 

2. Inflation data shows progress in economic recovery - read the Beehive PR

Today’s Consumer Price Index data which has inflation at 3.3 per cent for the year to July 2024, shows we are turning our economy around and winning the fight against rampant inflation. 

3. Regional Development Minister to host summits - read the Beehive PR

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones will hold a series of nationwide summits to discuss regional priorities, aspirations and opportunities, with the first kicking off in Nelson on August 12. 

4. Investing for future growth in tourism and hospitality - read the Beehive PR

The Government is moving forward with recommendations from the Tourism Data Leadership Group, beginning with establishing a Tourism Data Partnership Fund. 

5. Expert panel appointed to review Public Works Act - read the Beehive PR

An independent expert advisory panel has been appointed to review the Public Works Act to make it easier to build infrastructure, Minister for Land Information Chris Penk has announced. 

6. Resources Minister heads to Australia with message - ‘NZ is open for business’ - read the Beehive PR

A trip to Australia to meet mining sector operators and investors will signal New Zealand is once again open for business, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. 

7. Going for Housing Growth stage one unveiled - read the Beehive PR

The Government will establish ambitious new housing growth targets for New Zealand’s cities, while taking steps to make it easier to expand both up and out.

8. Endeavour Fund updated to grow the economy - read the Beehive PR

Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins today released the updated Endeavour Fund Investment Plan – the Government’s $55 million per annum fund for science and research. 

9. NZ wood and wool to benefit through new trade deal - read the Beehive PR

New Zealand concluded a groundbreaking trade deal with Costa Rica, Iceland, and Switzerland, to remove tariffs on hundreds of products that benefit sustainability and the environment. 

10. Keeping Kiwis safe is Govt priority in Q3 plan - read the Beehive PR

The coalition Government's latest Action Plan will have a strong focus on making Kiwis safer and restoring law and order, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced. 

11. Government Q2 Action Plan delivers for Kiwis - read the Beehive PR

A successful second quarter Action Plan shows the coalition Government has continued to build on the momentum of its first 100 days, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says.  

12. Granny flats popular with all ages - read the Beehive PR

More than 1,300 people have submitted on the recent proposal to make it easier to build granny flats, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk say. 

13. Budgeting pressure relief for renters - read the Beehive PR

Restoring the brightline test to two years will help increase the supply of residential property putting downward pressure on rent, Revenue Minister Simon Watts says.

14. Regional Infrastructure Fund opens to applications - read the Beehive PR

Councils, iwi, businesses and community organisations with infrastructure projects that support regional priorities are invited to apply for funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund. 

 

Environment, Climate change and weather events

 

1. Funding confirmed for regions affected by North Island Weather Events - read the Beehive PR

The Coalition Government has confirmed the indicative regional breakdown of North Island Weather Event (NIWE) funding for state highway recovery projects funded through Budget 2024. 

2. Test for Customary Marine Title being restored - read the Beehive PR

The Government is proposing legislation to overturn a Court of Appeal decision and amend the Marine and Coastal Area Act in order to restore Parliament’s test for Customary Marine Title. 

3. Government moves to ensure flood protection for Wairoa - read the Beehive PR

Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced his intention to appoint a Crown Manager to both Hawke’s Bay Regional and Wairoa District Councils to speed up the delivery of flood protection work in Wairoa. 

4. Consultation opens for the Emissions Reduction Plan - read the Beehive PR

The Government’s draft Emissions Reduction Plan shows we can stay within the limits of the first two emissions budgets while growing the economy, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. 

5. Urgent review into Wairoa flood response begins - read the Beehive PR

Environment Minister, Penny Simmonds announced the terms of reference for a rapid review into the Wairoa flood response.

6. Decreasing gas reserves data highlights need to reverse oil and gas exploration ban - read the Beehive PR

MBIE’s annual Petroleum Reserves report detailing a 20 per cent reduction in New Zealand’s natural gas reserves shows the need to reverse the oil and gas exploration ban, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says. 

7. Government unveils five-point climate strategy - read the Beehive PR

The coalition Government is proud to announce the launch of its Climate Strategy, a comprehensive and ambitious plan aimed at reducing the impacts of climate change and preparing for its future effects. 

8. $25 million boost for conservation - read the Beehive PR

New Zealanders will get to enjoy more of our country’s natural beauty including at Cathedral Cove – Mautohe thanks to a $25 million boost for conservation, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka announced today. 

9. Carbon capture framework to reduce emissions - read the Beehive PR

A Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) framework has been released by the Coalition Government for consultation, providing an opportunity for industry to reduce net CO2 emissions from gas use and production. 

10. Faster consenting with remote inspections - read the Beehive PR

The Government is progressing a requirement for building consent authorities to use remote inspections as the default approach so building a home is easier and cheaper. 

11. Government aligns Clean Car Importer Standard with Australia to reduce vehicle prices for Kiwis - read the Beehive PR

The Government will be aligning the Clean Car Importer Standard with Australia in order to provide the vehicle import market with certainty and ease cost of living pressures on Kiwis the next time they need to purchase a vehicle. 

12. More support for Wairoa clean-up - read the Beehive PR

A further $3 million of funding to Wairoa will allow Wairoa District Council to get on with cleaning up household waste and sediment left by last week’s flooding, Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark. 

13. Minister concludes local government review - read the Beehive PR

Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has concluded the Future for Local Government Review and confirmed that the Coalition Government will not be responding to the review’s recommendations. 

14. Critical minerals stocktake underway - read the Beehive PR

Work on a critical minerals list and a stocktake of New Zealand’s known mineral potential is underway and will be key to enabling a strategic, considered approach to developing the country’s resources and strengthening mineral resilience. 

15. Further boost for Wairoa Mayoral Relief Fund - read the Beehive PR

The Government is providing a further $500,000 to the Wairoa Mayoral Relief Fund to help the community following flooding.  

16. Protecting homeowners’ rights in natural disasters - read the Beehive PR

Associate Finance Minister David Seymour is glad to see the Natural Hazards Insurance Act come into force, further protecting homeowners’ rights after a natural hazard event and seeing the Earthquake Commission (EQC) become the Natural Hazards Commission. 

17. Government passes Clean Car Importer Standard Bill - read the Beehive PR

Changes to the Land Transport (Clean Vehicle Standard) Act will enable changes to the emissions targets more easily with a review of the Clean Vehicle Standard currently underway.

 

What's happened in the House?

After three-week of recess in July, the House resumed has back. During sitting weeks, the House of Representatives meets in the Debating Chamber to debate legislation, ask and answer questions, and more.

23 July – 25 July 2024

Oral question time.  

A debate on the final report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State Care and in the Care of Faith-based Institutions was held. 

One bill was introduced this week Secondary Legislation Confirmation Bill. This bill enables secondary legislation, which would otherwise be revoked, to be confirmed.

 

30 July to 1 August 2024

This week in Parliament is a brief overview of anticipated business and events to be conducted by the House and Select Committees in the coming week.

Wednesday, 31 July is a members’ day, and a general debate will follow oral questions.

Government legislation scheduled for progress this week:

  • Local Government (Electoral Legislation and Māori Wards and Māori Constituencies) Amendment Bill
  • Resource Management (Extended Duration of Coastal Permits for Marine Farms) Amendment Bill
  • Gangs Legislation Amendment Bill

Private and local legislation scheduled for progress this week:

  • McLean Institute (Trust Variation) Bill

Members’ legislation scheduled for progress this week:

  • Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Winery Cellar Door Tasting) Amendment Bill
  • Fair Trading (Gift Card Expiry) Amendment Bill
  • Employment Relations (Restraint of Trade) Amendment Bill

 

Progress in the house

To see bills at varying stages and find out the status, follow this link. 

What's open for submissions? 

Parliament's decisions affect all New Zealanders. Have your say and influence the laws passed by Parliament. You can get involved by making a submission.

Make a submission - New Zealand Parliament (www.parliament.nz)

 

Important dates

Budget 2024 was delivered on 30th May. Budget 2024 tax calculator is very popular. About 513,000 people have used it. 

Auckland Regional Fuel Tax (RFT) ended on 1st July 2024.

Government launched Q3 action plan on 1st July 2024 with a significant focus on restoring law and order. 

Military Style Academy pilot for serious young offenders started on 29th July 2024. Retail crime and young offending needs a crackdown. The pilot has a three-month academy style program and nine months residential care with whanau and community groups.

Tax relief for the first time in 14 years. Hard-working New Zealanders will keep more of what they earn. The personal income tax thresholds bracket will change, ensuring tax relief for New Zealanders starts on 31st July 2024. 

Free public access to RATs (Covid-19 testing kit) will continue until 30th September 2024.

Temporary Accommodation Assistance for people who were displaced by severe weather events in 2022 and 2023 (Cyclone Gabrielle and Auckland Anniversary Floods) is available until 30th June 2025. 

The Temporary Accommodation Service (TAS) activated on the 9 July 2024 for the 25-26 June Wairoa flooding event. The TAS is currently accepting registrations from displaced residents in Wairoa who need assistance finding temporary accommodation.  

Links to recent news items

Hawke's Bay App (HBApp) - Opinion: Government is focused on addressing mental health crisis in New Zealand

Hawke's Bay App (HBApp) - Hawke's Bay Expressway a road to reality 

Hawke's Bay Today newspaper - Talking Point: Government focused on supporting mental health - Katie Nimon

 

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Thanks

Katie Nimon

Member of Parliament for Napier                                                                                                                                                                                         

Chairperson, Education and Workforce Select Committee                                                                                                                                                   

Member, Environment Select Committee

Contact us:

Napier electorate office: 16 Carlyle Street, Napier                                                                                                                                                                 

Phone: 06 - 835 2569                                                                                                                                                               

Email: [email protected]