Now that Parliament is back in full swing, we’re focussed on holding the Government to account over its wasteful spending and excessive use of consultants. 

Meanwhile, National has released a range of strong policies around education, childcare and water. These practical policies will really benefit people in places like Southland and are what’s needed to get our country back on track.

My office has also been busy with lots of constituent enquiries and I’ve had the pleasure of attending some great local events, meeting lots of you along the way.  

This year’s Surf to City event attracted over 3000 participants. I was proud to complete the 3Km section with my daughter Briony. Congratulations to everyone who gave it a go.

Crime continues in the South

It’s shocking that robberies are continuing to happen in our city, including a nasty ram-raid at the Pomona St Discounter last week. While Labour sits on its hands, National would go hard on crime. Our Law and Order policy includes a youth military academy and extended prison stays.

A fabulous turnout at the Southland A & P Association show recently, which made for great event where the best of town and country got together

Teaching the Basics Brilliantly

Christopher Luxon unveiled National’s plan to reverse the damage done to New Zealand's schooling academic achievement. 'Teaching the Basics Brilliantly' will ensure every child has the skills they need in reading, writing, maths and science, to set them up for further success.
National will require all primary and intermediate schools to teach an hour of reading, an hour of writing and an hour of maths every day. 

FamilyBoost will support families

I was in Auckland recently when National leader Christopher Luxon announced our new FamilyBoost childcare tax rebate, to support young families dealing with Labour’s cost-of-living crisis. This rebate will target 130,000 lower and middle-income families with up to $75 more in their weekly after-tax pay - that’s $3,900 every year, depending on income.

I’m astounded at the food prices that we’re being forced to pay and I despair for young families and the elderly who tell me they’re really struggling 

Food prices eating into wages

Record food prices are hurting Southlanders, as the cost-of-living crisis becomes entrenched under Labour. Statistics New Zealand data shows that food prices have risen by 12 per cent in the past 12 months, with fruit and vegetables up 23 per cent. Food prices have increased more in the past three years than in the entire nine years of the previous National Government.

International Women’s Day was a great opportunity to acknowledge the success of women. I feel honoured to be in Parliament promoting the voice of Southern women and representing the Invercargill electorate.

Three Waters has to go

National will scrap Three Waters and Labour’s co-governed mega-entities. We will restore council ownership and control, set strict rules for water quality and investment in infrastructure and ensure water services are financially sustainable.

In the news:

My Diary:

March 28th-29th: Parliament Sitting 

March 30th: South Island Field Days Kirwee

April 1st: NZ Certified Builders Annual Apprentice Challenge

April 4th-6th: Parliament Sitting

As always, I’m here to help. Please contact me at my Invercargill office on Ph- 03 218 5060, or email me at: [email protected] 

Thank you for your support

Penny Simmonds
http://pennysimmonds.national.org.nz/