It's been a challenging start to the year, with our community still recovering from flooding and cyclone Gabrielle. Through these tough times I've seen our community step up and provide support for those who need it, which shows how incredible the North Shore can be, especially when we come together.

It's hard to believe it's been almost three years since I was elected as your MP, and this October, Kiwis will go to the ballot box and choose the next government. I think we are at a crossroads this election. I see real challenges on the North Shore with increasing crime and the skyrocketing cost of living, but also huge opportunities if we are bold enough to seize them with both hands.

I'll be fighting every day for the North Shore. 

Supporting the community

The last few months have been particularly tough on the North Shore, with flooding all over Auckland from severe rain barely subsiding before we were hit by tropical cyclone Gabrielle. Homes and businesses were damaged, and many more were left without power or cut off. In all this adversity, I worked alongside people delivering food to the vulnerable and helping clear up the damage.

It never ceases to amaze me how our community can come together to help when times are tough; people helping out even when their homes are flooded or damaged or offering support to loved ones or neighbours is a testimony to the strength of the North Shore.  

Sadly 11 people lost their lives in the devastation of cyclone Gabrielle, including two volunteer firefighters. Our first responders are true heroes, and their work no doubt saved many more lives. The thoughts of every New Zealander are with them and their families and with the loved ones of all those tragically taken. 

It will be many months of cleanup and recovery, and support is available if you need it. My office is able to assist and connect you with the appropriate authorities. 

• Healthline is available 24/7 at 0800 611 116, it is free, and the team can answer questions about general health concerns and medication.

• If you need to talk to someone at any time, 24/7 counselling is available for free by calling or texting 1737.

Local Water Done Well

As National's spokesperson for Local Government, I've been leading the charge against Labour's Three Waters reforms. This divisive and broken agenda won't deliver for Auckland, and it won't deliver for New Zealand. As National's first policy of the year, we announced our alternative policy, Local Water Done Well. This policy is the result of a heck of a lot of hard work. Since becoming Spokesperson for Local Government in 2021, I've listened to concerned councils and Kiwis on Three Waters across the country.

1. Repeal Three Waters and scrap the four co-governed mega-entities
2. Restore council ownership and control
3. Set strict rules for water quality and investment in infrastructure
4. Ensure water services are financially sustainable