It’s been a great month in the electorate, and I’ve enjoyed bumping into people for chats on our streets. It’s clear there is a growing spring in steps as we get closer to Christmas. However, we do know that for some families this time of year is tough. That’s why for my final community meeting of the year I’m hosting the Glen Innes Food Bank to hear more about the great work they do in our community to support community. The event is Friday 12 December, 1:30pm at the Kohimarama Yacht Club. You are welcome to bring along any food you may wish to donate, and my office will work to deliver this to the Food Bank after the meeting. Christmas cake and coffee will be served, all are welcome. 

There are so many wonderful volunteers in our community. I was pleased to be invited along to the Central East JP Association meeting to speak to our local JPs about the work I’m doing in the electorate, but most importantly to help recognise the contribution many JPs have made in the area for decades providing help and advice to others. We work closely together to ensure members of our community are supported. 

I also had a wonderful time this month meeting members of U3A in the electorate and taking their questions on everything from local government reform to standards of Parliament to the benefits of democracy. It was enjoyable to have such a thoughtful and considered discussion at the St Andrews Village in Glendowie. I can’t wait to be back! 

I’ve been out in Glen Innes with Debbie from the Business Association and it’s really pleasing to see the village opening again after so many road works. I popped into Celebrate Aotearoa shop to see all the goodies on offer for Christmas, Avons Butchery, and heard their Biltong is a best seller, and met Gledson, Pan Pacific Champion in Ju Jitsu, who runs a great studio training many kids from across Auckland in Ju Jitsu right here in our neighbourhood.

There’s been quite a bit of building work occurring around Glen Innes with the Tāmaki Regeneration Company over the years, and I met up with the team again to see how it’s all progressing. I was glad to hear of the way contractors on site are keeping safety front of mind, and timeframes to deliver for the Government and the community. 

I know many members of our community are concerned about building and development, especially as it comes to Plan Change 120. A small reminder that if you’d like to learn more about the Council’s plans for your home and surrounding area, you can find details here. Submissions will close Friday 19 December, so make sure you get yours in on time. If you require any assistance, you can always call my office. 

See you around the community, and hopefully at our meeting with the Glen Innes Food Bank!