Arataki celebrates new upgraded bus hub
Arataki is a bustling area, with thousands of people passing through each day. With the opening of the newly upgraded bus hub this week, this place of connections now provides a safer, friendlier welcome to all those who journey through it.
“We’re thrilled to open the upgraded Arataki bus hub,” says Arataki Ward councillor Rick Curach.
“With more than 40,000 bus passengers a month, Arataki is the second busiest bus hub in Tauranga. It’s an active community with many drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians travelling to school, work, the local shopping centre or the beach.”
Following the community’s calls for better shelters and a safer environment, Tauranga City Council committed to giving the bus hub a much-needed upgrade. Improvements include new high-quality, high-capacity shelters featuring mahi toi (artwork) elements from local hapū, improved streetlights, new CCTV monitoring, and a new shared user path.
The upgraded Arataki bus hub features mahi toi (artwork) elements from local hapū.
Councillor Rick Curach says the new shelters have brightened the area up.
“Commuters are now welcomed to Arataki by these stunning mahi toi on the shelters. The new facilities will make travelling by bus more user-friendly and improve safety during transit.”
Additional upgrades to the Arataki bus hub include enhanced pedestrian crossings, wider footpaths, and a new shared user path providing safer access to and from the bus hub and Bayfair Shopping Centre for cyclists, pedestrians, wheelchair users, skaters, and scooter riders.
Family’s Plea after BOP Man’s Suicide - Sun Live article
Watching a suicide plotline on Shortland Street has spurred a Tauranga woman to speak out to create more awareness of the help available to people in distress.
Twelve years ago, Louise Newton’s son-in-law Kevin Peck took his own life.
A week earlier, in a state of mental distress, he had called the national health Suicide Crisis Helpline.
Newton said she, her husband and Kevin’s wife were all listening on the call when he was told the crisis centre could not help him.
But that has not changed her belief in the importance of helpline and other crisis services, and how they can save lives.
Newton said she decided to speak out about their experience after seeing an episode of Shortland Street that featured a self-inflicted death.
After seeing an ad for the crisis helpline following the show, she decided to take action.
Newton is concerned that crisis centres only advertise during suicide-related episodes of TV shows like Shortland Street or in news articles about self-inflicted deaths.
“There isn’t enough advertising. I haven’t seen any other helplines advertised,” Newton said.
“This is my gripe. Unfortunately, we couldn’t save my son-in-law. But I don’t want to see this happen to anyone else.”
Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford.
Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford knows Newton’s issue and advised her to contact SunLive to discuss it.
“We’ve got a terrible history of suicide in New Zealand, and Louise’s campaign and story that she shared with me was more about making the support networks more widely known.”
New Zealand has one of the worst suicide rates in the world, and breaking the taboo topic will help those in need get the help they need, Rutherford said.
“I think you just do that by number one, breaking the ice and having the uncomfortable conversations with people so they know what support is available,” he said.
Rutherford said the simple solution was to increase people’s awareness and engage community leaders, such as politicians and sports people, to speak up.
“We have come into the Christmas period, making it an excellent opportunity to discuss where to get help.
“We collaborate with agencies and have strong connections with our non-governmental organisations, primary health organisations and primary care partners,” McGrath said.
“We also provide flyers and leaflets about our crisis services upon request.
Where to get help:
- Grief Support Services 07 578 4480
- Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO (available 24/7)
- Youth services: (06) 3555 906
- Youthline: 0800 376 633
- What’s Up: 0800 942 8787 (11am to11pm)
- Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)
- Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
- Helpline: 1737
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111
Full Sunlive article : SunLive - Family’s plea after BoP man’s suicide - The Bay's News First
Faster mental health support for Kiwis
Thousands of New Zealanders will soon get better, faster mental health support thanks to the Governments $10 million Innovation Fund backing community-driven solutions. Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey has announced the first three recipients: Youthline, the Sir John Kirwan Foundation, and MATES in Construction.
These organisations are already doing incredible work to help people, and this funding will allow them to reach even more Kiwis. Youthline will expand its Counselling Your Way programme, supporting young people aged 16-24 who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or low mood. The Sir John Kirwan Foundation will grow Mitey, a free programme helping teachers equip kids aged 5-13 with essential mental health skills. Meanwhile, MATES in Construction will expand its workplace programme, supporting construction workers’ mental wellbeing and building resilience in a tough industry.
This isn’t just about funding — it’s about empowering communities with practical, proven tools to make a real difference. Whether it’s young people, children, or workers, these programmes are about reaching people where they are and giving them the support they need.
The next round of funding opens mid-2025, meaning more community organisations will get a chance to continue this important work. Together, we’re building healthier, more resilient communities.
Big week here at Parliament, sitting under urgency!
We’ve made significant progress on crucial legislation ahead of Christmas:
- Reinstated the Three Strikes law – putting victims’ rights first and getting tough on serious offenders.
- Passed the first reading of new anti-stalking legislation – making stalking a specific crime with up to 5 years’ prison time.
- Advanced better rental laws - making it easier for tenants to find homes (yes, including with pets!) while giving landlords more confidence to offer rentals.
All part of our plan to get New Zealand Back on Track!
Alice Johnson Oval and Gordon Spratt Reserve Opens!
Great morning on Saturday at the Alice Johnson Oval Opening Ceremony at Gordon Spratt Reserve Papamoa. The new 265-square-metre pavilion is a significant upgrade to our local sports facilities.
Alice Johnson Oval features a cricket oval. Gordon Spratt Reserve features facilities for athletics, football, league, tennis, netball, baseball, bowls, rugby and touch rugby. It’s also a popular destination for cycling and walking and has a skate park and pump track.
Santa Claus is coming to town!
The Papamoa Community Market needed a last-minute Santa, and I was more than happy to help, especially as it was the markets 2nd anniversary. It was great to see you all on what was a stunning day and bring some festive cheer to our wonderful community. Penny loved being Santa’s little helper!
Tauranga's newest playground is officially open!
The Bay of Plenty delivered a stunning day, and it was incredible to see so many families enjoying our beautiful new waterfront facilities.
The new playground boasts an impressive 8-metre-tall waka tower structure, which is set to be a key attraction. There are a variety of ways to access the waka tower, from the elevated pathway with connecting bridges to rope climbing for kids that love a bit more adventure. Kids will be able to enjoy the stunning view of the moana and try and spot the local marine life from this vantage point.
There's also a nature play zone for climbing and balancing and an elevated pathway etched with the Milky Way and Matariki stars; and a water play zone with troughs and water pumps and more.
Elements of Māori culture have been woven into the look and feel of the new playground. The playground will be a place where all our tamariki can belong.
And just in case you’re wondering, our treasured sculptures of Hairy Maclary and his friends won’t be going anywhere – they’re sticking around for all the fun!
Visited Modcom on Monday in Tauriko
They are one of six offsite manufacturers of classrooms for the Ministry of Education and a fantastic 100% locally owned business.
They build a wide range of portable buildings for commercial, educational, and event purposes.
Thank you to Annaliese for showing me around and walking me through the process.
About Modcom:
With a legacy spanning over 25 years from their Tauranga base, they are deeply committed to advancing the construction industry through their work.
Their story is driven by passion, excellence, and a forward-thinking mindset aiming to provide not just buildings but comprehensive solutions that meet client's evolving needs. This commitment shapes the path forward, supported by their enthusiasm for the products and services offered.
If you would like me to visit your local business – Get in touch!
Christmas Catch up – MP Style
Great catch-up with my friend, mentor, and former Bay of Plenty MP, Hon Tony Ryall today! Reflecting on the past year and mapping out plans for 2025. Always grateful for Tony's wisdom and support, even in the rain!
Craigs Pavilion is now officially open at Bay Oval
Exciting news for cricket fans! The brand-new Craigs Pavilion is now officially open at Bay Oval. This incredible upgrade doubles the existing facilities, adding a modern lounge, bar, and offices. As one of New Zealand's leading Test cricket grounds, it can now host up to 12,000 spectators!
About Bay Oval:
The pavilion includes a modern lounge, bar, offices, player viewing areas, public toilets, kitchen, meeting facilities, and flexible changing rooms
The pavilion offers prime viewing, continuous supper, and an exclusive bar
Bay Oval is a leading Test cricket ground in New Zealand that can host up to 12,000 spectators
Bay Oval is a community-built facility that hosts events like the annual AIMs Games tournament, Christmas in the Park, and Walk for Life
Question Time
A couple of my questions to the Minister of Local Government Simeon Brown at Parliament this week. Rates are out of control, and it’s time for change. That's why we're getting councils back to basics. That means fixing pipes, filling potholes, and delivering core local services.
Keeping Emergency Departments Safe this Summer
This summer in the Bay of Plenty and across the country, emergency departments (EDs) are bracing for increased pressure. EDs are often busy and stressful environments, particularly during the holiday season, but staff and patients deserve to feel safe while seeking or providing care. That’s why the Government is stepping up security measures this summer, building on the success of last year’s programme and backing it up with Budget 2024’s $31 million, 4-year investment.
This funding is directed towards increasing security at eight high-priority EDs, employing 44 additional full-time security personnel, and increasing surge capacity during busy periods. Temporary cover is already in place for positions yet to be filled in key hospitals like Auckland, Wellington, and Dunedin.
In addition, a flexible funding package ensures security can be rapidly deployed across all 33 EDs when needed, with 20 hospitals receiving extra support this summer. Budget 2024 also includes $408,000 for surge security in the event of a major incident.
A key focus is the training of more than 1,000 frontline security staff, with a special emphasis on de-escalation techniques, safe restraint, and incident management. This training will begin in January and is expected to be completed by May 2025.
Ultimately, the Government’s commitment is simple: ensuring that anyone visiting or working in EDs can do so safely, so care can be delivered effectively and efficiently.
Mum’s the Word!
Happy birthday for Monday, Mum! Loved celebrating with you on Monday before heading down to Parliament this week. Truly thankful for your endless love and support.
A busy year in the House
“Just to give you an idea of how much we have achieved this year…. Chris Bishop sums it up for us …….”
It has been a busy, productive year in the House as the coalition Government works hard to get New Zealand back on track... Leader of the House Chris Bishop says.
“This Government promised to rebuild the economy, restore law and order and reduce the cost of living. Our record this year in the House has shown we’re doing exactly that,” Mr Bishop says.
“The first full year of the coalition Government has seen 52 Government Bills pass their third readings to become law. A further 83 Government Bills passed their first reading, and 47 Government Bills were reported back from select committee.
“The legislative programme for 2024 reflected key elements of the coalition agreements, the 100-day plan, and our four quarterly plans.
“Important Government legislation passed this year has included:
- The Fast-track Approvals Bill which speeds up the consenting process for major projects with significant regional or national benefits;
- Budget 2024 legislation which included tax relief for workers and the introduction of the FamilyBoost childcare tax credit.
- The Gangs Bill which bans gang patches in public places; and
- The Education and Training Amendment Bill which brings back charter schools, with several planning to open for term 1 2025.
“I am particularly proud that the Bill to protect greyhounds as the greyhound racing industry is phased out was passed through all stages under urgency with the unanimous support of the Parliament. It was an example of Parliament at its best and I thank all parties for working together to pass this swiftly.
“I’d also like to thank all those who make our Parliament run smoothly, including the House Office, the Parliamentary Counsel Office, the cleaners, and staff from the chamber, security, reception, the Parliamentary Library and Hansard, as well as my colleagues on the Business Committee and the Deputy Leader of the House Simeon Brown.
“Parliament will be back in January, and we’re looking forward to another great year in the House.”
2024 by the numbers:
- 93 First Readings (83 Government, 1 Local, and 9 Members’ Bills)
- 60 Bills reported back from Select Committee (47 Government, 1 Private, and 12 Members’ Bills)
- 60 Third Readings (52 Government, 1 Private, and 7 Members’ Bills)
- 1,795 papers have been presented to the House by Ministers
- 77 Question Times during which Ministers have answered 933 Oral Questions and thousands more supplementary questions
- And as of this morning, Ministers have been asked 87,147 written parliamentary questions.
MP welcomes local experience to BayTrust
Five appointments and reappointments have been made to the Bay of Plenty Community Trust (BayTrust) along with appointments made across New Zealand today.
“BayTrust plays a vital role in supporting our community organisations every year,” MP for Bay of Plenty, Tom Rutherford says.
“Over the last financial year, they granted 251 community organisations with a collective $8.4 million. This shows the essential support that the trust provides to grassroots organisations to enable growth, development and positive outcomes for local communities.
“The Associate Minister for Finance, Shane Jones has appointed Tania Cutfield, Danielle Auld, Rose Hiha-Agnew, and Nicola De Latour to the trust while reappointing Tane Phillips.
“Collectively, these trustees bring expertise in business, community services, and governance.
“It is critical that BayTrust has a diversity of skills that represents the interests of our community. I am sure that these appointments will continue the great work that BayTrust currently do on behalf of Bay of Plenty.
This Week in New Zealand History
New Zealand’s first cricket match
20 December 1832
Church Missionary Society house at Paihia, c. 1843 (Alexander Turnbull Library, A-048-007)
Church Missionary Society (CMS) leader Henry Williams gave the male pupils (Māori and Pākehā) of his mission school at Paihia in the Bay of Islands a rare day off.
They had sat exams the previous day. Their reward was an opportunity to play cricket on the foreshore at Horotutu. They must have already had some practice, as Williams wrote in his journal that they were ‘very expert, good bowlers’. Williams, who had imported the cricket equipment, had a bowl himself, conceding a run to five-year-old Edwin Fairburn.
The schoolgirls were ‘all fatigued’, but in any case, would not have been allowed to play alongside the boys. They had to be content with receiving prizes for their academic work.
The following day ‘the boys recommenced their regular work’, building fences and preparing ground for cultivation. There was no summer break for an institution largely reliant on its own resources.
The naturalist Charles Darwin watched the next cricket match on record, at Waimate North mission station three years later. Once again, both Māori and Pākehā boys took part.
This Week in Parliament – Briefly
Hairdressers and barbers to receive a regulatory clean shave: Minister for Regulation David Seymour has announced that the third sector review, led by the Ministry for Regulation, will cut red tape for the hairdresser and barber industry.
Karen Walker and Keven Mealamu join CNZ Board: Fashion designer Karen Walker CNZM and former All Black Keven Mealamu MNZM have been appointed to the Creative New Zealand Board, Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
Second RMA Amendment Bill introduced to Parliament: The coalition Government’s second RMA Amendment Bill, introduced to Parliament this week, will help drive economic growth and increased productivity by making it easier to get things done in New Zealand,” RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop says.
Health targets encouraging – work continues: New data shows that the Government’s focus on health targets is putting the brakes on the steep decline in delivery seen over the past five years.
Fintech innovation to boost consumer competition: The launch of a bespoke pilot programme for financial technology companies will help boost competition for Kiwi consumers and improve choice in the financial and banking sectors, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.
Aucklanders save $899 million in water charges with Local Water Done Well: The Government has approved the Watercare Charter to keep Auckland’s water services affordable, saving households about $899 million over four years while ensuring improved service quality and record infrastructure investment to unlock housing growth in Auckland says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown.
NZGIF update: Cecilia Tarrant has announced she has resigned as Chair of New Zealand Green Investment Finance, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says.
Changes to encourage more rental homes passed into law: The Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill has passed its third reading, delivering on the coalition Government’s commitment to deliver sensible changes to tenancy laws, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says.
Welcome progress on youth vaping: New Zealand is turning the corner on youth vaping and the Government’s law changes will reinforce that trend, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello said today.
New tools to be added to Traffic Light System: Legislation that will introduce new non-financial benefit sanctions into the welfare Traffic Light System and require people on Jobseeker Support to reapply every six months has passed its first reading in Parliament
Stalking legislation takes first step: Legislation that will make stalking illegal with a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison has been introduced and passed through first reading in Parliament recently, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
Gravy train well and truly over for consultants: New data shows the public service is on track to save more than double the Government’s initial target on contractors and consultants.
TIPENE to open in term 1 2025: Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that TIPENE is the final charter school to open in term one 2025.
Minister responds to consultation on Holidays Act replacement: Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says she has directed her officials to change the proposed direction of Holidays Act reform.
Consultation opens on fisheries sustainability: Catch limits for rock lobster and Pacific bluefin tuna are being reviewed, with consultation opening recently, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.
Invigorating New Zealand’s capital markets: The Government is taking steps to invigorate New Zealand’s capital markets to encourage investment in infrastructure and productive businesses, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.
Mental health targets provide foundation to build on: Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says the Government’s five mental health and addiction targets provide a foundation to build on in the first quarter of reporting, but the data highlights there is still plenty of work to do, particularly in key regions.
Supporting safe, secure, responsible use of space: New legislation to manage risks posed by ground-based space infrastructure will be introduced next year, Space Minister Judith Collins says.
Sue Brake appointed to Guardians NZ board: Finance industry veteran Sue Brake has been appointed to the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation Board, while the chair of the board, John Williamson, has been re-appointed, Finance Minister Nicola Willis announced last Friday
Kaitaia Airport resolution takes flight: A vital future for the country’s northernmost airport has been secured thanks to an agreement between the Government, Iwi and the Far North District Council.
Government to enable tolling to accelerate investment in roads: The Government has agreed key policy changes to enable tolling of roading infrastructure, helping bring forward critical investment in New Zealand’s transport network, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.
Three Strikes Bill passes third reading: The Sentencing (Reinstating Three Strikes) Amendment Bill which passed its third reading today, makes it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending will not be tolerated, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says.
Record wild goat hunting competition removes 12,935 goats: A collaborative effort between hunters, landowners, and conservation organisations has successfully removed 12,935 wild goats during the second annual National Competition, Hunting and Fishing Minister Todd McClay announced today.
New appointments to the Sport NZ board: Four new board members have been appointed to the board of Sport and Recreation New Zealand (Sport NZ), Sport and Recreation Minister Chris Bishop says.
Next phase of Whangārei Hospital development underway: The next phase of the Whangārei Hospital redevelopment is underway, with Health Minister Dr Shane Reti breaking ground on the new child health centre.
Government sets target to reduce persistent poverty: The Government has set a target to lift 15,000 children out of persistent child poverty by 2035, Child Poverty Reduction Minister Louise Upston has announced.
New Zealand and Thailand make progress towards strategic partnership: New Zealand and Thailand have set an ambitious timeline to upgrade their relationship to a ‘Strategic Partnership’, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.
Assurance received from the National Library on freedom of expression: Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden has spoken to Rachel Esson, the National Librarian responsible for the National Library of New Zealand, about the importance of the Government institution remaining impartial and not attempting to censor academics hosted to talk at the National Library.
Therapeutic Products Act repeal bill passed: The Therapeutic Products Act Repeal Bill has been passed by Parliament, clearing the way for better regulation for medicines, medical devices, and natural health products, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello announced
Modernising dietary supplement regulations: The first steps in modernising the regulation of exported dietary supplements have been announced today by Associate Health Minister Casey Costello, Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard, and Trade Minister Todd McClay.
Trade Minister to visit India: Trade Minister Todd McClay will travel to New Delhi on 15 December to continue strengthening New Zealand’s relationship with India.
Low-emission hydrogen plan released: The Government has released a Hydrogen Action Plan which sets out key steps to unlock private sector investment in hydrogen energy and support New Zealand’s transition to a low-emissions economy, Energy Minister Simeon Brown and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced
New plan for reducing family and sexual violence: The launch in Auckland today of the second Te Aorerekura Action Plan for the prevention of family violence and sexual violence featured three government ministers, together to symbolise this government’s commitment to reducing harm from violence.
Ministers recognise health volunteers: Seven outstanding individuals and organisations have been recognised in the 2024 Minister of Health Volunteer Awards.
Cabinet circular paves way for better regulation to benefit everyone: Regulation Minister David Seymour says that changes to the way regulations are made will ensure the process is more efficient, transparent and effective.
Government getting local government back to basics: The Government has agreed to reforms that refocus local councils on delivering essential services and core infrastructure, spending responsibly, and operating under greater scrutiny, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown says.
Q4 plan sets NZ up for growth and infrastructure: It will soon be easier to get things built in New Zealand due to the actions delivered by the Government as part of our Quarter Four (Q4) Action Plan, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says.
Extra security to again keep EDs safe this summer: Health Minister Dr Shane Reti is again reminding New Zealanders that violence against patients, visitors and health workers won’t be tolerated, with additional security for hospital emergency departments across the country this summer.
Minimum wage set for 2025: The adult minimum wage rate will increase by 1.5 percent to $23.50 an hour from 1 April 2025, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced Tuesday.
Securing the skills and experience NZ needs: The Government is supporting businesses to secure the skills and experience New Zealand needs by continuing to refine the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
“A responsive immigration system is fundamental to rebuilding the economy,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says.
Public to have their say on disability funding: The wider disability community will have their say early next year on how the Government should deliver disability support services that are fair, consistent, transparent, and sustainable, Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says.
First quarterly Oranga Tamariki performance data released: Children’s Minister Karen Chhour has welcomed the release of the first quarter of Oranga Tamariki performance data.
Lifting productivity key: Lifting the productive capacity of the economy is the key to realising New Zealand’s potential, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
Financial measure and capital allowance updated: The Government is adopting a new financial indicator and a new approach to capital allowances, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
PM’s Space Prizes highlight talent and innovation: The inaugural winners of the Prime Minister’s Space Prizes showcase the depth and breadth of talent in New Zealand’s dynamic space and advanced aviation sectors, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Space Minister Judith Collins say.
Review recommends ECE regulation shakeup: Regulation Minister David Seymour has welcomed the Early Childhood Education (ECE) regulatory review report, the first major report from the Ministry for Regulation.
Antarctica New Zealand Board appointment: Foreign Minister Winston Peters has appointed Craig Ellison to the Board of Antarctica New Zealand.
One-stop shop fast-track bill passes third reading: The coalition Government’s new one-stop shop fast-track consenting regime for regionally and nationally significant projects will help rebuild the New Zealand economy, say RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Minister for Regional Development Shane Jones.
New Zealand ratifies AANZFTA Upgrade: New Zealand has ratified the Upgrade to the Agreement establishing the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), Minister for Trade Todd McClay announced this week.
Gene Technology Bill passes first reading: New Zealand is one step closer to reaping the benefits of gene technology with the passing of the first reading of the Gene Technology Bill, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins says.
Local Government (Water Services) Bill passes first reading: Legislation to enable new water service delivery models that will drive critical investment in infrastructure has passed its first reading in Parliament, marking a significant step towards the delivery of Local Water Done Well, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly say.
Offshore Renewable Energy Bill passes first reading: The Government ‘s Offshore Renewable Energy Bill to create a new regulatory regime that will enable firms to construct offshore wind generation has passed its first reading in Parliament, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.
Government takes steps to reduce card fees for Kiwis: The Government welcomes the Commerce Commission’s plan to reduce card fees for Kiwis by an estimated $260 million a year, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.
New Zealand to assist Vanuatu on earthquake response: New Zealand is providing Vanuatu assistance following yesterday's devastating earthquake, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.
Building consent processing times improve: More building consent and code compliance applications are being processed within the statutory timeframe since the Government required councils to submit quarterly data, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.
Faster access to support through Innovation Fund: Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey is proud to announce the first three recipients of the Government’s $10 million Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund which will enable more Kiwis faster access to mental health and addiction support.
Consultation opens on working with engineered stone: “Accelerated silicosis is an emerging occupational disease caused by unsafe work such as engineered stone benchtops. I am running a standalone consultation on engineered stone to understand what the industry is currently doing to manage the risks, and whether further regulatory intervention is needed,” says Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden.
New appointments to the Charities Registration Board: Mr Roger Holmes Miller and Ms Tarita Hutchinson have been appointed to the Charities Registration Board, Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston says.
Greater reporting on Treaty settlement commitments: Mehemea he pai mo. te tangata, mahia – if it’s good for the people, get on with it. Enhanced reporting on the public sector’s delivery of Treaty settlement commitments will help improve outcomes for Māori and all New Zealanders, Māori Crown Relations Minister Tama Potaka says.
Torture redress for survivors of the Lake Alice Unit: The Government has confirmed how it will provide redress to survivors who were tortured at the Lake Alice Psychiatric Hospital Child and Adolescent Unit (the Lake Alice Unit).
Diverse skills in community trust appointments: A total of 41 appointments and reappointments have been made to the 12 community trusts around New Zealand that serve their regions, Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones says.
Government seeks partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned-land: The Government today released a request for information (RFI) to seeking interest in partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned land with low farming and conservation value (excluding National Parks) Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced.
Wide ranging legislation to make justice system more efficient: Court timeliness, access to justice, and improving the quality of existing regulation are the focus of a series of law changes introduced to Parliament on Weds by Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee.
More AML relief on the way for Kiwi businesses: The Government is delivering regulatory relief for New Zealand businesses through changes to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act.
Inspector-General of Defence appointed: Recently the House agreed to Brendan Horsley being appointed Inspector-General of Defence, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand final levy rates confirmed: Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Government has agreed to the final regulations for the levy on insurance contracts that will fund Fire and Emergency New Zealand from July 2026.
Levelling the playing field for media advertising: Legislation that will repeal all advertising restrictions for broadcasters on Sundays and public holidays has passed through first reading in Parliament today, Media Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
A ‘HUGE’ Thank You!
As 2024 winds down, it’s a great time to look back at everything we’ve been through together as a country, electorate, and community.
Being your Bay of Plenty MP, I’ve tried to get out and about as much as possible, meeting constituents, local groups, schools and businesses while also making sure our voice is heard in Parliament. As a local myself, I get what it’s like living here - the good and the challenging bits - which is why I’ve made meeting with as many of you as possible my top priority.
To make it easier to catch up, I’ve been getting out of the office and into the community.
Attending some community markets was a fantastic way to connect, and the conversations and feedback have been great - thank you!
Our coffee catchups at cafes across the Bay have worked well too. These casual chats have led to some important issues being raised, which we’ve been able to follow up on. I’ve also started holding clinics at our retirement villages, making it easier for residents to have their say without having to travel to my electorate office.
As someone who used to be a volunteer firefighter, I have a real soft spot for our community groups. I’ve tried to get to as many local events as I can to support these amazing organisations. I’ve met some incredible people along the way and made plenty of new friends.
We’re lucky to have such a diverse business scene in the Bay of Plenty - from small family-owned operations to big companies. Visiting these businesses has really shown me just how much our region is growing and thriving.
I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported me this past year - whether you stopped by for a coffee chat, caught up with me at the markets, or shared your thoughts and concerns. Your support means so much and helps me be a better voice for our community. Here’s wishing you and your families a wonderful Christmas and all the very best for 2025!
-Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford
Papamoa Electorate Office
3/9 Domain Road, Papamoa – (Next to Ray White) - 07 542 0505
3/9 Domain Road, Papamoa – (Next to Ray White) - 07 542 0505
I’m a Local, Just Like You!
Thanks,
Tom.
Tom.