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Welcome to 2026 - and what a start we’ve had to the year so far. We have a November 7 election date, the local economy is moving in the right direction, exports are booming, we’ve recorded some of the warmest weather in the country over the summer and people that I’ve met out and about are feeling positive.
I hope you managed to spend some time relaxing over the break with family and friends – I enjoyed some lovely days at the beach at Riverton with my grandchildren. I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to those who worked over this period - especially our police, fire and emergency staff and our doctors and nurses. We appreciate you. |
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Driver Licensing Changes Beneficial
The Government is updating New Zealand’s Graduated Driver Licensing System to make it cheaper and easier for young Southlanders to get their driver’s licence. From next year, drivers will no longer need to sit a second practical test to move from the restricted to full licence, there will be a 12-month learner period for under 25s, an increase of 6 months, and the total cost of getting a Class 1 (car) licence will reduce by $80.
Boosting the economy by increasing visitors
Southland has hosted some fantastic events over the summer, from the Tour of Southland to the Edendale Crank Up Day. These attractions bring people to province and support local economic growth. To encourage this, the Government has established the Regional Events Promotion fund with five Southland events including the Burt Munro Challenge and the Shepherdess Muster receiving over $90,000 in support. |
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Sir Tim Shadbolt
It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Sir Tim Shadbolt. I had the privilege of knowing Sir Tim for many decades and was honoured to work alongside him as he championed SIT’s zero fees scheme. He was rewarded with a knighthood in 2019 for his services to Local Government and the community. Serving 24 consecutive years, and 26 years in total, as Invercargill Mayor, his contribution to the city is both significant and enduring. He was a person of remarkable character—charismatic and engaging, yet also deeply compassionate. He was a valued colleague and a dear friend, and I firmly believe our city is the better for his leadership and service. May he rest in peace.
Midwives to Deliver Vaccinations
Midwives are now able to offer a wider range of funded immunisations, supporting families from pregnancy through the early months of a child’s life. In a recent change, midwives will now be able to administer funded vaccines to mothers after birth, babies, and eligible family members until the baby is 12 months old, improving access to vaccinations and helping ensure timely protection against vaccine‑preventable diseases. |
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New Speed Signs Boost Road Safety
The installation of new Variable Speed Limits signs, to slow traffic down outside 14 Southland is a positive step forward in improving local road safety. The schools include: Ascot Community, Edendale, Hedgehope, Makarewa, Sacred Heart (Waikiwi), St John's Girls', St Patrick's (Nightcaps), St Thomas's (Winton), Te Anau and Winton. At peak times, speed limits will drop to 30km/h, or 60km/h, depending on the road and safety requirements.
Prescription Changes Benefit Southlanders
From this month, 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 less GP fees. I know this will make a huge difference for those who rely on prescriptions for long-term medications and will free up GP’s time. |
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In late January MP’s came together to hold our National Party Caucus Retreat in Christchurch. It was a perfect time to talk, reflect and plan for the year ahead, as we continue to focus on fixing the basics and building the future for the people of Invercargill and Southland.
Prime Minister to visit Invercargill
We will welcome the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to Invercargill next week (February 12-13) for business visits and a meet and great party event. If you would like to attend please contact our electorate secretary at [email protected] or phone 027 438 0360. Finance Minister Nicola Willis will also be in Invercargill next Friday (February 13) conducting business visits and attending the Field Days. |
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I was delighted to attend the UK Commissioner’s Burns’ Night celebration in Invercargill recently. Burns’ Nights are held near the birthday of Robbie Burns, on January 25, to celebrate the Scottish Poet’s life. It was also a great to acknowledge the Scottish culture here in the South.
November 7 - Election Day
The Prime Minister has announced that this year's general election will be held on Saturday November 7. We will now continue to work throughout the year to deliver on our plan to fix the basics and build the future. Advance voting begins on October 26. |
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My Diary
February 9: Southland Dialysis Unit OpeningFebruary 11-13: Southern Field Days at Waimumu February 12-13: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visit February 13: Finance Minister Nicola Willis visit March 8: International Women’s Day
Here to Help
As always, my team and I are here to help. You can get in touch with us by emailing [email protected] or by phoning 03 218 5060. Our Invercargill office, on Kelvin Street, is open 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday. |
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Kind regards, Penny
Hon Penny Simmonds MP for Invercargill |
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