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Dear John
Today marks a significant milestone as hardworking Kiwis receive
personal income tax relief for the first time in fourteen years. Our
tax plan is not only responsible but also sustainable, and funded
through savings and innovative revenue initiatives. Importantly, it
avoids additional borrowing and safeguards against inflationary
pressures.
Under our new package, average income households will benefit from
up to $102 every fortnight. Additionally, eligible families with young
children will receive FamilyBoost childcare payments of up to $150 per
fortnight, providing crucial support where it's needed most.
These measures are the result of our efforts to save billions of
dollars by eliminating wasteful projects. Strengthening our frontline
services is integral to our broader strategy of rebuilding our economy
and charting a course for a prosperous future.
Tax Relief Starts now!
New Rolleston Primary School
Rolleston is one of the fastest-growing towns in the country and is
home to many families.
In response to increasing demand on our schools, we are excited to
announce the construction of a new primary school scheduled to open
its doors in 2026. Initially designed for 250 students, with a
capacity to expand to 700 and potentially accommodate up to 1,000
students, this new school represents another significant investment by
our government in education.
We are committed to providing our children with world-class
schooling that prepares them for a bright future.
National Cervical Screening
We’ve just announced women at higher risk of cervical cancer will
continue to receive vital access to free cervical screening. Since its
inception in 1990 under the National government, the National Cervical
Screening Programme has played a pivotal role in reducing cervical
cancer deaths by approximately 60 per cent.
This initiative remains crucial as approximately 85 per cent of
women living with cervical cancer are those who have not undergone
screening. Screening and early detection have proven instrumental in
saving the lives of countless Kiwi women.
I am delighted that this targeted support will continue,
safeguarding the health and wellbeing of those at risk.
Indonesian trade cooperation
Exciting news for our growers across Selwyn and New Zealand! The
government has successfully negotiated new export arrangements with
Indonesia, opening up significant opportunities for Kiwi
producers.
This new export plan specifically focuses on onions, allowing our
growers to continue exporting over $40 million worth of onions to
Indonesia each year. As Minister responsible for Horticulture, I've
engaged closely with growers to understand their needs and how the
government can support their business growth.
I am particularly thrilled about this development as it marks a
positive stride towards our goal of doubling export values and
enhancing returns for our growers. I am committed to expanding trade
opportunities for our primary production sector. This new deal with
Indonesia eliminates market barriers, such as the requirement for
fumigation, ensuring the quality of our produce remains
uncompromised.
Pharmac – Oestradiol Gel
For women navigating menopause, and in response to a global
shortage of HRT patches, Pharmac is launching consultations on
oestradiol gel as an alternative treatment option.
Many women have expressed concerns about limited access to
menopause treatments, and I'm pleased that Pharmac is taking proactive
steps to address this crucial issue in women's health.
Menopause can profoundly affect daily life, and it's essential to
ensure accessible and affordable treatment options are available to
support women during this transition.
Out and About
Farmers and Growers Visits
This month, I've been travelling around Canterbury, visiting local
farmers and growers. From visiting an organic farm boasting over 40
varieties of fruits and vegetables to exploring a 50-acre vegetable
farm supplying local businesses and supermarkets, to connecting with a
family-owned operation cultivating potatoes, peas, and cereals, and
meeting with a dedicated blackcurrant grower – each encounter has
reiterated what world-class producers we have right here in our
backyard!
These remarkable farmers not only sustain our local economy but
also play a vital role in feeding New Zealanders and beyond.
Local Innovation
I've always been a firm believer that science and innovation hold
the key to addressing our environmental challenges, so I was thrilled
to witness a groundbreaking weeding system called Map and Zap,
developed at AgResearch in Lincoln. This state-of-the-art technology
utilises AI and lasers to detect and eliminate weeds without relying
on chemicals.
Congratulations to Dr. Kioumars Ghamkhar and the dedicated team at
AgResearch for successfully bringing this prototype to life.
Bay of Plenty Young Grower
I recently had the honour of speaking at the Bay of Plenty Young
Grower of the Year competition.
This event not only showcased the exceptional talent of young
horticulturists in the region but also demonstrated that the future of
the horticulture industry looks incredibly promising.
A heartfelt congratulations to Lilah Rosenfeldt for her
well-deserved victory! I wish her the best of luck as she prepares for
the national finals.
New Zealand Cadet Forces
I was privileged to be invited to be the Reviewing Officer for the
Senior Non-Commissioned Officers course for the New Zealand Cadet
Forces in Burnham this month.
A number of the cadets travelled from all over the South Island to
take part in a programme aimed at building discipline, leadership, and
community spirit among the youth.
Thanks to everyone involved in nurturing these young cadets to
become future leaders within their unit!
Upcoming Events
Coffee Catch up.
I will be in Kirwee and Darfield this month you want to have a
coffee and talk to me about an issue, policy, or just want to chat! No
appointment needed.
Tuesday 13 August
📍 Thirsty Acres, Cnr West Coast Road, Courtenay Road, Kirwee
⏰ 11:00am - 12:00pm
📍 Fat Beagle Café, 51 South Terrace, Darfield
⏰ 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Public Meeting
We'd love for you to join us to hear from Hon Chris Penk, Minister
of Building and Construction, about the Government's plans for the
construction industry.
We want to hear about the issues you are facing and what the
Government can do to help.
If you wish to attend, please RSVP by 9th August to [email protected]
and forward any questions you would like Chris to address.
Here to help
As always, my team and I are here and available to help.
You can get in touch with us by emailing [email protected], phone
03 344 2800, or pop into the office in Rolleston Square between Monday
and Fridays, 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Kind regards,
Hon Nicola Grigg
https://www.national.org.nz/nicolagrigg
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