By the time this issue of Ponsonby News goes to print, our Government will have announced its first Budget – a Budget with a laser-sharp focus on you and the things that matter to you.
In keeping with our Government’s approach to getting things done, you would have seen that this Budget is about doing the basics well to get our country back on track. It’s about putting money into the important frontline services you and your family rely on, like health, education and law and order. And with a tax relief package that increases take-home income for 94 percent of households, we’re sticking by you as we navigate this rough economic patch together.
It's a common theme I’ve heard from people in another busy month of getting out and about in Mt Albert and across Auckland. Right now, people want a Government that sticks to the basics and puts money where it will deliver real results. The shooting in Ponsonby in early May was tragic, and a far cry from the safe streets that everyone should be able to walk. The $1.9 billion investment for Corrections in Budget 2024 is one way to keep New Zealand safe from crime.
It’s not just about what we announce in the Budget either. Our Government’s Local Water Done Well plan announced last month will mean Aucklanders will avoid a massive 25.8% increase in their rates. Again, simple things done right to help people deal with the cost of living.
The ban on cellphones at school is also providing to be a huge success and I’ve been hearing really good feedback from across Auckland. We’re already seeing a drop in cyberbullying, and more children talking with each other at break time instead of texting – what a win for our children’s wellbeing.
Every time I meet with people from around the community, I’m reminded of the sheer diversity of the people that call New Zealand home, and it’s not something we should take for granted. (Did you know that Auckland has been ranked the fourth most ethnically diverse city in the world?) Once again, last month I’ve had the privilege of taking part in a huge range of cultural events, in both Auckland and Wellington, from Tamil New Year and Pan Asian New Year to Eid and a Parents’ Day event hosted by the Korean Society of Auckland. New Zealand’s diversity is one of its strengths, and this is something I am keen to keep championing as Minister for Ethnic Communities.
Speaking of events, it was a real delight to host my first Seniors’ Morning Tea for the year – a big thank you to everyone who attended and shared some great conversation. I have another one coming up on Thursday 18 July at 10.30am at the Point Chevalier Community Centre, so please feel free to come along.
I will also be hosting a Community Connect on Saturday 8 June at 10am, at the Lodge Cafe in Mt Albert. If you’d like to come to either (or both) of these events, please email me at MPlee@parliament.govt.nz to RSVP and for details. I hope to see you there.
Until next time. (Hon Melissa Lee)
National List MP based in Mt Albert
Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
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Published: May 2024