Weeks of electioneering, debates, billboards and campaign promises have culminated in millions of Kiwis across Aotearoa casting their vote to decide our next Government.
The time has come for change and New Zealanders have certainly voted for change with a compelling outcome, and I am confident in what we can expect from the National Party.
In recent months we have had a number of discussions with members of Christopher Luxon’s team. They have made it clear that they want to drive the economy, and that trade is a fundamental part of doing so.
I have emphasised that one of the big issues that they will need to address, and with haste, is the challenging and cumbersome resource consenting process that can add ten years to getting projects over the line. I received confirmation that fixing the consenting process will be prioritised.
While the outcome of the results is clear, businesses, communities and whānau are still in limbo about the exact makeup, structure and agreements that will shape our next coalition Government.
I’m hopeful that New Zealand First will form part of the new coalition government – Winston Peters knows trade well and has previously led our foreign affairs. Equally, Shane Jones knows aquaculture, iwi and the regions, and this combined experience can only add value to our fishery and Māori business operations.
As an iwi-owned organisation with strong interests offshore, we need Aotearoa to have a united presence on the global stage, showing the world we are stable, confident, ready and moving.
This surety will allow us to keep creating jobs in local communities, employ whānau and invest back into our communities with confidence.
It will also ensure the continued implementation of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most recent Free Trade Agreements with the European Union and United Kingdom, solidifying the significant economic benefits we stand to gain.
I welcome the new Government – but we need to have it place quickly so National, Act and NZ First can get moving, start making good on their election promises and gain traction before the Christmas shutdown.
Reaching a decision quickly and decisively is in the best interests of every New Zealander.
Mahia te mahi! E kore te patiki e hoki ki tona puehu!
