A year in review
This is my last column for 2014 and a chance to thank everyone for their feedback during the year.
It was an incredibly busy year, and thanks for re-electing me as your local MP. I was humbled by the majority of 7,782 votes which is a record for the Ōtaki Electorate under MMP. I will continue to work hard locally and representing you in Parliament.
The election result across the country was a clear mandate for the National Government to keep providing strong and stable leadership.
I was also delighted to receive a phone call from Prime Minister John Key to say I would be reappointed as the Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Racing in his Cabinet. Both these portfolios help provide many jobs in Kapiti and Horowhenua and the rest of NZ.
A highlight for our region has been the rapid progress on the Kapiti Expressway and the real boost it has given us in terms of jobs and economic growth.
The announcement that Transmission Gully will finally go ahead is hugely important for our connectivity to the capital city.
Kapiti Airport, with flights to Auckland and Christchurch is also a vital link for business or pleasure trips.
The roll out of Ultra-Fast Broadband continues to deliver greater access to high speed internet within our community. Schools and businesses are already benefitting from this great initiative.
A lot of work has also been happening improving social services in our community. The new Foxton Health Centre is an impressive new facility, while the Children’s Team is looking after the most vulnerable children in Horowhenua and Ōtaki.
Environmentally, plenty of work is being done to improve the health of our fresh water, with solid progress being made on Lake Horowhenua and the Manawatu River.
Fees have been reduced to visit Kapiti Island which will make this bird sanctuary more accessible for families and tourists to enjoy.
Lastly, as the school year comes to an end I would like to congratulate all of those who have received awards and scholarships at the recent Prize Giving’s. Well done.
Over the Christmas break I will be spending time with family and friends before getting ready for an exciting 2015.
Merry Christmas and all the best for 2015.
The election result across the country was a clear mandate for the National Government to keep providing strong and stable leadership.
I was also delighted to receive a phone call from Prime Minister John Key to say I would be reappointed as the Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Racing in his Cabinet. Both these portfolios help provide many jobs in Kapiti and Horowhenua and the rest of NZ.
A highlight for our region has been the rapid progress on the Kapiti Expressway and the real boost it has given us in terms of jobs and economic growth.
The announcement that Transmission Gully will finally go ahead is hugely important for our connectivity to the capital city.
Kapiti Airport, with flights to Auckland and Christchurch is also a vital link for business or pleasure trips.
The roll out of Ultra-Fast Broadband continues to deliver greater access to high speed internet within our community. Schools and businesses are already benefitting from this great initiative.
A lot of work has also been happening improving social services in our community. The new Foxton Health Centre is an impressive new facility, while the Children’s Team is looking after the most vulnerable children in Horowhenua and Ōtaki.
Environmentally, plenty of work is being done to improve the health of our fresh water, with solid progress being made on Lake Horowhenua and the Manawatu River.
Fees have been reduced to visit Kapiti Island which will make this bird sanctuary more accessible for families and tourists to enjoy.
Lastly, as the school year comes to an end I would like to congratulate all of those who have received awards and scholarships at the recent Prize Giving’s. Well done.
Over the Christmas break I will be spending time with family and friends before getting ready for an exciting 2015.
Merry Christmas and all the best for 2015.