- By Simeon Brown, MP for Pakuranga
With Christmas around the corner, it’s a good time to reflect on the year that has gone and acknowledge how tough it has been for many Kiwis.
The cost-of-living crisis we face is clearly evident at this time of the year with nearly 50 per cent of families expecting to tighten their belts over the holiday break according to recent polls.
For some this just means fewer presents under the tree, but for too many it means less food on the table and higher costs they are increasingly unable to meet.
Something has to change going forward. More has to be done to get our country back on track and prospering once again.
Next year will be an opportunity to consider our country’s future as we prepare for a general election and there will be plenty of time for politics after the break.
For now, in my last column for the year, I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and an enjoyable summer break with family and friends.
The summer holidays are a special time for New Zealanders, with a chance to take a breather and refresh for the year to come.
I know many of you will be heading away to enjoy some time outside of Pakuranga and for those who do, I urge you to be safe wherever you go and be patient if traveling on busy roads.
Thank you for all your support this year. It is an incredible privilege to serve as the Member of Parliament for Pakuranga, and I hope to earn your trust again next year.
Once again, have a Merry Christmas and a safe summer break – I look forward to seeing you all in 2023!
