Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds says her phone at her Invercargill office has been running hot, as Southlanders react strongly to the Government’s new Car Tax.

“Farmers, builders, contractors, and those on low incomes have all expressed their shock and anger at this latest move.

"The level of concern from local people around this issue has been massive. It has clearly hit a nerve.

“One woman says she needs a specific type of heavy vehicle to tow a horse float - something most electric vehicles would be unsuitable for. 

“An Otautau farmer has told me he has no choice but to run a 4-wheel drive vehicle on his farm and would now incur a tax on any future vehicles. 

“Another Invercargill woman said she was saving for a car to get her kids to school, but simply could not afford an electric vehicle and was worried about the extra costs she could face. 

“Labour’s car tax policy will unfairly hurt local farmers, tradespeople and low-income earners for whom low-emission vehicles will still be too expensive or unsuitable for their lifestyle.

“Now if Southlanders need a specific type of vehicle for work, family reasons, or because of where they live - they will pay the price.

“I’m disappointed at this punitive new tax, which once again hits Southlanders in the back pocket.”