Their engagement during our nationwide roadshow was clear.
We heard, as we have across the motu, that the general election can’t come soon enough. We heard it’s time for the sun to set on this one-term government. We heard a clamouring for a government that puts people at the heart of decision-making. A government that delivers for everyone. A Green-led government.
Whether their core concern is a robust, future-proof health system that works for all, warm cosy homes, or a restored Southerner passenger rail service between Invercargill and Christchurch, southern people are ready for action from a government that cares for the South.
Because one thing is now abundantly clear about this coalition Government — they don’t care about us.
The Government’s attack on Otago Polytechnic, the increasing homelessness, the delay, cost blowout and broken promises around our new Dunedin hospital, the rising cost-of-living crisis, the gutting of our research and science sector, the University funding cuts, and most recently Sam Uffindell MP posting falsehoods about the cost of the iconic seesaw in George St ... it adds up to an absolute disregard for our community here in Ōtepoti Dunedin. On the other hand, I’m so incredibly proud of the way people mobilise when this Government tries to gaslight us. We are a well-educated city, and region, and we care about our special place. That much was clear when we saw the mobilisation of 35,000 people on the streets for the new Dunedin hospital a year ago, and in the protests whenever the Government comes to town. Many people have been writing submissions to oppose legislation for fast-track projects that will destroy one of our iconic wine growing regions, and cause a toxic legacy for future generations to clean up.
In contrast, the Green Party policies we have announced since December, 2024, put people back at the heart of political decision-making. Our Emissions Reduction Plan, He Ara Anamata, charts a path to cut emissions, restore biodiversity, and support communities — like through green infrastructure for South Dunedin. Our Green Industrial Strategy will scale up Jobs for Nature to boost environmental projects like the Halo Project.
Our Green Budget addresses the challenges of climate change and wealth inequality together.
And our Green Fiscal Strategy shows how we can choose economic rules that support the wellbeing of people and the planet.
The future of our city and region is in our hands. Together, we have the power to change things. Together, we can invest in a future where our children and grandchildren can thrive. It’s simply our choice.
