Electorate boundary changes mean that in the 2026 General Election, we’re welcoming Grey Lynn back into Auckland Central for the first time in over a decade, and I’m stoked! We celebrated the return this November in the sun and the joy of community of Grey Lynn Park Festival, followed up by an awesome Politics to the People hui at Grey Lynn RSC.
Talking to people across both events, as well as at our Ponsonby Politics to the People at Bar39 earlier in November, there’s a strong consensus from Aucklanders about the challenges we’re facing and also the solutions. People are angry at the Luxon Government’s decisions to cut our public services to the bone, then make the teachers, nurses and firefighters who need to teach, heal and keep us safe, pay the price of shameful below-inflation pay offers and unsafe staffing levels. People understand that changing this requires sensible reform of our tax system and the rebuilding of and investment in our country – which only happens when we see the value in each other and work together.
Practising hope is what makes it real. We get to build the world we want to live in every single day, against the grain of the current nasty politics. It’s important to remember not to define ourselves merely in opposition to something, but that standing for something – let alone helping make it happen – is so, so much more powerful.
I think this is why so many locals have been reaching out so early about getting involved in our campaign for next year. If you’re interested in connecting with our community, finding out what makes your neighbours tick and building the power for an accountable, responsible government that reflects our values of caring for people and planet, all are welcome to join! Just email my campaign manager at aj@chloeswarbrick.co.nz There’s a place for everyone and all skills – from baking to coding to fundraising to event coordination and everything in between.
With summer’s heat beckoning New Zealanders to the beach, walking tracks and into each other’s company, we can and should celebrate the things that make our country so bloody special. The things we love are the things we should protect – the things we all deserve to spend more time basking in, and can if we reject an economy of greed at all costs and instead create one that uplifts the well being of all.
These aren’t far-fetched ideas. Not only are they supposedly the values underpinning the spirit of Christmas, but they’re the principles which once sat behind government decision making in this country and they can again. They will, if we make it happen.
Happy holidays, Ponsonby. I so love being your local MP. Please don’t hesitate to reach out, as always, if there’s anything me or my team can do for you, via mp.aucklandcentral@parliament.govt.nz or come visit at 3/1 Cross Street, Auckland Central. (Chlöe SWARBRICK)
Chlöe SWARBRICK: Co-leader of the Green Party and MP for Auckland Central
