Last week volunteers across New Zealand were acknowledged for their dedication and willingness to give back to the community as part of Volunteer Week. It may come as a surprise how reliant we are on volunteers, with 89 per cent of community organisations run by volunteers.
Thankfully, giving back is part of who we are as New Zealanders, with over 53 per cent of adults reporting that they have volunteered in some capacity.
During my time as the local MP, I’ve met some extraordinary people who have dedicated themselves to volunteer organisations like fire brigades, sports clubs, heritage groups and everything in between. Some people devote their lives to volunteering, others give time when they can. It all makes a difference, and I recognise everyone who is doing their bit to make our communities stronger.
In other news, I spent some time at Fieldays a few weeks ago and it was terrific to see the primary sector on full display. There were plenty of farmers, growers and people associated with the sector making the most of the weeklong event. It was a chance to network with like-minded people and showcase their products which are in-demand domestically and around the world.
The significance of the primary sector was reinforced when it was announced that food and fibre exports are on track to hit $60 billion by the end of this year. That’s good news for rural New Zealand, and good news for the rest of the country.
Our Government is committed to growing the economy by backing the primary sector to do what they do best. We remain focused on achieving the ambitious target of doubling the value of exports in 10 years. That means supporting the sector with the tools and certainty it needs to grow, such as replacing freshwater rules, reforming the RMA, halting costly regulations, removing agriculture from the ETS, and expanding free trade agreements.
Authorised by Scott Simpson MP, 614 Pollen St, Thames
