Dear John,
Welcome to 2026, we are already a month into what is set to be a busy year.
I hope you managed to spend some time relaxing over the break with family - and a big thank you to those who worked through the holidays - especially our essential service personnel.
There are some important announcements that have happened over the holiday break and last few weeks that I want to update you on.
New Maximum Prescription Length
As announced in Budget 2025, from February 1, we're increasing prescription lengths for selected medications from 3 to 12 months, where safe to do so.
This means fewer trips to the doctor, easier repeats and saving money on GP fees.
I know this will make a significant difference for those in our district who rely on prescriptions for long-term medications.
November 7th Election Date
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced that this year's general election will be held on Saturday the 7th of November.
We will continue to work throughout the year to deliver on our plan to fix the basics and build the future. If you spot me around the district, whether at a Coffee Catchup at your local café, out door-knocking, or at one of our fantastic community events, be sure to say hello!
Advance voting will begin on the 26th of October. Make sure your enrolment information is up to date at Vote NZ.
Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill Submissions
When government wants to make a Bill a law, it goes through several stages before it becomes legislation.
One of these important stages is when a Select Committee issues a call for submissions, which is the public's opportunity to give direct feedback on the Bill.
Getting our RMA reforms right is vital for Selwyn. Long-term planning, consenting, subdividing land, and simpler rules are some of the most pressing issues in shaping Selwyn's future across construction, the environment, farming and key infrastructure. Have your say on what you want the future of our district to look like.
The Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill is open for submissions until 4:30pm Friday 13th of February.
Out and About
Earlier this month Canterbury hosted the National Party Caucus Retreat. It is always a privilege to show off our beautiful region to our colleagues.
Following the retreat, we managed to get some campaigning in for Tracy Summerfield - the National candidate for Wigram - alongside some of our incredible volunteers.
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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