In the days when I’ve not been in Wellington, I’ve been a regular in Queenstown and visited Wanaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, Clyde, Glenorchy, Roxburgh and Oamaru (where my husband was born and raised).
I’ve been up to the ski fields with the Prime Minister, visited Stewart Island with the Speaker and admired the Maniototo scroll plain.
We live in a beautiful part of the world.
While I love the wider south, Dunedin is my home.
It’s where I grew up, had my education — from kindergarten to university — and where my children now go to school. It’s where I worked as a lawyer for 20 years, and as a company director. I love this city.
I think it’s the best place in New Zealand to raise a family with the best educational opportunities, and abundant outdoor activities on our doorstep, from seafront to hillside — that’s why our family chose to stay here.
The people are talented, friendly, diverse and committed to helping each other and the community, and I am committed to this city.
It is for these reasons I have put my hand up to stand for selection to be the Labour candidate for the Dunedin electorate.
David Clark has been a committed local representative, advocating for many local causes such as Hillside, Invermay and the hospital rebuild, alongside his ministerial roles.
David has been a wonderful local MP and I wish him well as he looks to spend more time with his young family.
My summer will also involve a deep dive into the replacement resource management legislation.
The Resource Management Act (RMA) has long been blamed for stopping housing developments while also failing to protect and improve the environment.
After many reports, and analysis, the RMA is being overhauled to enable necessary development outcomes and establish environmental bottom lines.
Part of the package is a requirement for long-term 30-year spatial planning to link up planning for urban growth with infrastructure such as schools and pipes.
Provisions to enable climate mitigation activity (such as renewable electricity) will be strengthened along with stronger provisions to avoid development in areas subject to sea-level rise and other hazards.
It’s important that we get the legislation right so it can be faster, cheaper and better than the RMA.
I hope you have some time out over summer with loved ones and in whatever weather you prefer.
Covid is still about, so take care and remember that anti-virals are available for those who need them.
Thanks to those who work over the festive season — you are appreciated!
Meri Kirihimete.
