Meager unlocking mega potential

Maureen Pugh, West Coast – Tasman MP

As soon as he was appointed to the new role of Minister for the South Island in January, my colleague Rangitata MP James Meager began work on exploring the untapped development potential that is all around us throughout the South Island.

The recent trip around the southern part of my electorate with him was a great demonstration of just what is out there in terms of economic potential for regions of the South Island.

In South Westland we looked at the wharf at Jackson Bay and we met with tourist operators and communities of Franz and Fox Glaciers. In Hokitika it was great to involve James in the mayors/chairs and Iwi Forum where we discussed many aspects of potential growth for the region. A particular focus was the emphasis we placed on ports – the strategic importance for the future via airports, seaports and technology ports.

We connected with people in Reefton as the town thrives in anticipation of more mineral’s recovery. In his role as Hunting and Fishing Minister, James was able to connect with Fish & Game NZ members – as Minister for Youth it was great he could spend time with Buller High School students.

We were very impressed with the Stockton Mine operation and it’s clear to see that Government funding is already benefitting port development at Westport.

In my role it is wonderful to see the South Island voice strengthened in Wellington so in the coming weeks I’ll be working with Kaikoura MP Stuart Smith to co-ordinate a further visit by James Meager to the Tasman-Nelson-Marlborough districts.

And a quick word on the recent Defence spending announcements: these commitments are an investment in the future of our country rather than a ‘one-way street’ spend.

For example, the payback for the taxpayer comes when there’s spending on improved working and living conditions for defence personnel, and there’s a huge benefit for the economy.

The current Government inherited a run-down fleet, including vessels without any effective military capability so upgrading ships and aircraft is long overdue. And let’s not forget New Zealand has the world’s fourth-largest economic zone around it and that deserves the highest level of protection. Patrolling and protecting our fishing zones is an on-going necessity to our economic success.

Also. a big ‘shout out’ to the advocacy group Rural Women New Zealand currently preparing to celebrate 100 years’ service to our rural communities. As more and more community touchpoints have disappeared – whether it be the school, the bank, the local pub or various clubs and organisations – rural folk have become more and more isolated and Rural Women remain a wonderful, strong and vital advocate for our rural communities.