Year in review
This is my last column in what has been a huge year for our region and New Zealand as a whole.
The big story around Kapiti of course has been progress on the expressway. I reckon NZTA’s design with four interchanges and a new bridge over the Waikanae River is a very good outcome.
Roading in Kapiti has been a big issue for ages but I’m glad we finally have certainty after years of talk and indecision.
Just last week NZTA announced that consultation on the Peka Peka to Otaki section will begin in February, and preliminary work on Transmission Gully is well underway.
Other good local news this year has been extending the double tracking of rail to Waikanae and a new school announced. I fought to retain the beds at the Horowhenua Health Centre, and was rapt we could showcase Kapiti Island to Prince William in January.
New paramedics have started work in Otaki and Foxton, and Urgent Community Care projects have been doing great work by treating people at home and avoiding unnecessary trips to hospital. Well done to Wellington Free Ambulance in Kapiti and St Johns for choosing Horowhenua and Otaki for a 12 month pilot. We are very fortunate.
Of course it’s been a tough year for much of New Zealand, especially the South Island. Local communities have really been tested by a string of tragedies, including the Pike River disaster, the Christchurch earthquake, the Fox Glacier plane crash and major storms in Southland.
In my opinion Prime Minister John Key has done an outstanding job through these tough times. I’m proud of the way the Government has responded so quickly and sensitively to these various challenges.
Congratulations to my colleague Hekia Parata who was recently promoted to cabinet. Hekia ran a great campaign in the recent Mana by-election and I look forward to working with her.
Thank you for all the support and feedback I’ve had throughout 2010. It’s a great privilege to be the MP for Otaki and represent our region in Parliament, as well as working as a Minister in John Key’s Government.
Overall it’s been a hugely busy year and I’m looking forward to a bit of camping and relaxation with my family over the holidays. Next year is going to be even bigger with the Rugby World Cup and a general election.
Stay safe these holidays, have a great Christmas and all the best for 2011.