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Dear John In this issue:
Hamilton West MP Tama PotakaFirstly, I’d like to congratulate the new Hamilton West MP, Tama Potaka, on his resounding win at last weekend’s by-election.
Tama attracted 6629 votes—2285 more than his nearest rival, Labour candidate Georgie Dansey (4344 votes). It is a clear sign that New Zealanders are ready for change—they want a government that delivers outcomes. Tama has great experience and much to offer his electorate and New Zealand. We warmly welcome him to the National Party caucus. I look forward to working closely with Tama next year. Out and AboutFieldaysI spent some time talking with people in the agriculture industry at National’s stand at Fieldays in November and I visited many local businesses which were exhibiting.
One of farmers’ biggest concerns is the amount of their time (an estimated 30%) spent complying with a continuous avalanche of unproductive regulations and administration heaped upon them by the Government. It is costly, and, as one farmer said, it has a negative effect on their 'top paddocks'. Despite around 170,000 people being on the Jobseeker benefit, farmers are finding it difficult to find workers and they are frustrated with immigration settings. And they are not happy with the Hydra that is "Three Waters". National would repeal and replace the Water Services legislation. The party doesn't agree with taking community assets or forming four mega-entities to look after water which won't lower costs for ratepayers or taxpayers. National also doesn't believe complicated models of co-governance will achieve better outcomes for ratepayers, and the attempt to entrench the provisions was outrageous. Submissions can be made on the Water Services Legislation Bill and the Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Bill until 12 February 2023.
It is always great to see the innovations happening in the agricultural sector. As one of our biggest export earners, it is hugely important to New Zealand's economy. BDO Lake Taupō Cycle ChallengeThe Cycle Challenge at the end of November attracted over 3000 entries. It included two new events—the Gravel Grind and the Length of the Lake from Turangi. We look forward to rebuilding the event now that Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.
The Cycle Challenge is one of my favourite events of the year. There is always such a buzz around Taupō and it’s great to see so many people out there having fun. Well done to the Rotary team for their efforts! Cambridge ConnectionsI recently attended a presentation from the Cambridge Connections Stakeholder Group—Waipā District councillors, Cambridge Community Board members, iwi representatives, Waka Kotahi staff, transport planners and freight industry representatives—where roading and transport options in the town were discussed. Waipā District Council plans to deliver a business case in June 2023. It will include a preferred site for a third bridge which is necessary for growth in Cambridge. I also met with new Waipā District Mayor Susan O'Regan and Deputy Mayor Liz Stolwyk to discuss how we can work together on issues like the third bridge for Cambridge. Final 2022 Speech in ParliamentWednesday was the last session for Parliament in 2022 and I delivered my final speech for the year in the Adjournment Debate. Looking forward, as leaders we need to focus on playing the ball and not the man. Everyone in the House serves New Zealanders. Cross party groups working together, whether in sports teams or on committees, helps democracy. We need to protect our precious democracy. I would like to acknowledge all the support staff and volunteers who help our democracy function, and the sacrifices MPs' families make in supporting them. And I would like to thank the people in social services who help those suffering the cost-of-living crisis, especially as Christmas approaches. Christmas WishesAs another busy year comes to a close, I wish you all a happy and safe Christmas and New Year. I am taking a break and going camping where there is no cell phone coverage, so I look forward to a digital detox. I will recharge my batteries ready to continue advocating for people in the Taupō Electorate and plan for the election next year. My team will be able to help with urgent concerns during that period. The office contact details are listed below. Hold the DateFacebook LiveIf you didn't have a chance to tune into my monthly Live Chat on Tuesday, it is recorded on my Facebook page. I will be taking a break in January, so my next chat will be in February. Join me to discuss the issues that currently concern you. Tuesday 14 February 8 p.m Facebook @louiseupstonmp Friendly ForumsI will be holding Friendly Forums at the start of next year: Taupo: 3 March 2023, 10 a.m.–11.30 a.m. Rotary House, 12 Story Place, Taupo Cambridge: 17 March 2023, 10 a.m.–11.30 a.m. Seminar Room, Taylor Made Community Space, 22A Taylor Street, Cambridge South Waikato (Tokoroa): 27 March 2023, 10 a.m.–11.30 a.m. South Waikato Sport and Events Centre, 25 Mossop Road, Tokoroa Electorate AssistanceIf you need help from my team over the Christmas break and your query is urgent, please e-mail the Office of Louise Upston MP [email protected] or phone 0508 TAUPOMP (0508 828 7667). If your query is not urgent, it will be attended to on our return from the Christmas break. The Cambridge office will be closed from 19 December 2022 and reopen on 4 January 2023. The Taupō office will be closed from 24 December 2022 to 9 January 2023. Phone messages and emails will be checked during this time and urgent matters will be responded to.
Kind regards, Hon Louise Upston |
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