As we reflect on the year gone by, I want to sincerely thank you for your support. Your commitment is valued, and I genuinely appreciate the trust you continue to show. |
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We all know that we live in the best part of the country and it’s so positive that the Government continues to commit to supporting economic growth in our province and building the future. Let me highlight the support that the National Government has given to our community, and our province, this year. |
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Tourism Gains Support
$393,000 has been allocated to this region for a new Southern tourism campaign, aimed at encouraging Australians to holiday here. This is on top of another $350,000 last year, from the Government’s Regional Tourism Boost. And in further support, five Southland events, including the Burt Munro Challenge and the Invercargill round of the NZ Premier Motorsport Summer Series, will also receive $93,000 in Government funding for promotions. |
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Infrastructure Funding
A huge $38.31 million, from the Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund, for eight Southland projects will boost further economic growth. This includes $2.2m to support the development of a Southland aquaculture business hub at Bluff, the first stage of a new solar farm and network upgrade on Stewart Island, thanks to a $15.35m suspensory loan, and a $2.25m loan to create a regional space hub at the Awarua SpaceOps Satellite Station.
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Great to have Agriculture and Trade Minister Todd McClay in Southland recently, where we visited the Thornbury Vintage Machinery Club
Flood Protection
Five local flood protection projects have also been boosted through new infrastructure funding, including the Oreti River project ($3m), and the Aparima River and Otautau Stream and the Te Anau Basin projects ($300,000 each). Almost $15m has also been pledged for Invercargill and Oreti Flood Resilience stop bank upgrades and improvements to the Mataura River Flood protection project.
Rail Network Progress
The Government has backed the economy in Southland with one of the largest investments in our local rail network. The Rail Network Investment Programme will invest $1.36 billion over three years, across provincial New Zealand’s rail network. In Southland and Otago, that will include 21km of re-sleepering, 13km of re-railing and 10 turnout replacements, for the 2024/25-2026/27 period, along with bridge renewals and resealing of 24 level crossings. |
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Congratulations to Sophie Ineson, of Southland Girls’ High School, who won this year’s Prime Minister’s Space Prize for student endeavour, receiving $50,000 to support her tertiary education.
Southland Space Sector Boost
Another $2.25m Government loan will fire up space operations in the South. The SpaceOps Satellite Station, is a project that has massive potential for our province, creating a regional space hub to support the development of Southland’s space sector, boosting employment and economic growth and resilience.
RMA Reforms
We’ve reformed the RMA – meaning Southlanders will be able to do more with their properties without having to get a consent, while farmers will benefit from fewer rules and regulations. Strong Government support this year has been crucial in supporting our province, as we continue to grow our economy, improve opportunities and keep local people in work.
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SIT back for Southland
We have returned SIT to Southland and to local control, empowering the community, learners, employers and industry to take ownership. This has been a goal of mine over a long period. I am proud that it has finally been realised for the benefit of the whole province.
Boost to Southland school property budgets
Nine Southland schools will gain a boost to their maintenance funding, the first time since 2010. Southland young people deserve to thrive at school, with warm, safe and dry classrooms. The Southland schools are: Menzies College, Waiau Area School, Southland Boys’ and Southland Girls’ High Schools, James Hargest College, Gorge Road, Invercargill Middle, Windsor North and Otatara Schools.
Southland youth early intervention
Southland young people will benefit from a $300,000 Government investment in youth development programmes focused on early intervention and prevention support. Southland's Miharo Murihiku Trust will receive $140,250, over three years, while the YMCA Invercargill will receive $165,000, over three years.
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Great to be a part of the Southland Santa Parade this year – with my grandson Fife the elf helping out.
Merry Christmas
I’d like to wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a safe, restful holiday season.
I hope you get the chance to relax, recharge, and spend quality time with those who matter most to you and I look forward to seeing you all in 2026.
My Office will close on 24 December at noon and will reopen on 19 January 2026.
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Warmest regards,
Penny Simmonds | MP for Invercargill |
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