Penny Simmonds MP

The devastation from the recent Southland storm is likely to be felt across the province for weeks to come and it’s also a time to reflect on lessons learned. It’s estimated over 1000 insurance claims have been made, with more likely once people assess the final damage. The

Southland's tourism sector is growing, with funding support from the Government ensuring that the positivity continues. For the 12 months to June 2025, total regional tourist spend in this province reached $359.7 million, an increase of $2.1 million on the previous year, according to Great South.

Invercargill MP, Penny Simmonds. In contrast to many other parts of the country, Southland business confidence is growing.  While many other regions are feeling the pinch, there’s a real positivity around the city at present and this has been supported by a recent Southland Business Confidence Survey. It shows

Opinion: Vocational education in Southland and around the country is at a pivotal moment, as changes to the polytechnic system deliver the opportunity to prioritise skills to meet today’s job market. A critical part of the current redesign is greater local industry and employer involvement, which will lead to

Proposed NCEA changes are designed to ensure that Southland students leave school with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in further education, training, or employment. It’s essential that young Southlanders receive a world class education that sets them up for life. At the moment kids are leaving

By Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for Vocational Education Vocational education is one of the most important tools we have to grow our economy, support local jobs, and give New Zealanders practical pathways into meaningful work. That’s why this Government is making big, necessary changes to rebuild a system that

Getting a GP appointment in Invercargill, and across parts of Southland, has been a major concern for local people — but that's about to change. The National-led Government is boosting General Practice funding by $175 million this year. This is the largest funding boost for GPs in our country’

Five great Southland events are set to receive $93,000 in Government funding aimed at supporting them and driving economic growth across the province. The events to receive support are the Burt Munro Challenge 2026 ($16,000), the New Zealand Premier Motorsport Summer Series – Next Gen Round 4 ($20,000)