Penny Simmonds MP

Farmers across Invercargill and Southland are delivering the goods for our province, with New Zealand export revenue set to reach record levels. In the year to 30 June 2026 export revenue is forecast to reach $64.3 billion - up six percent - and driven by healthy demand for dairy

Southland secondary school students will benefit from increased trades training opportunities through the expansion of school Trades Academies. Budget 2026 increased the number of Trades Academy places from 10,000 to 20,000 over the next four years, with this jump in place numbers funded by savings from cancellation of

A self-certification scheme, allowing skilled plumbers and drainlayers to sign off their own work, will provide huge benefits for Southlanders. The Government is progressing the "Self-certification by Plumbers and Drainlayers Bill" to put responsibility into trusted tradies' hands and has recently decided to expand it to cover

Economic and employment benefits are set to flow in the South with the recent approval of two fast-track projects. The Fast Track process is about cutting through unnecessary delays to unlock the projects that will provide benefits to the people of the South, giving the certainty and momentum needed to

Home and community support workers play a critical role in delivering essential services to some of Southland’s most vulnerable. That’s why it’s so positive that the Government will provide a 30 percent increase to support workers mileage rates to help offset rising fuel costs. Home and community

New move-on orders are another tool for Invercargill police as they work to keep Invercargill streets safe. Announced last month, these orders will give police an extra tool to deal with disorderly behaviour in public places. This is something that has been concerning Invercargill retailers and I am hopeful police

Tourism is a significant part of Southland’s economy, leveraging the region’s natural attractions and famous southern hospitality. And while our two national parks and five Great Walks are incredible attractions, the growing range of Southland events is also becoming important in encouraging visitors South. The 38th annual Edendale

November 7 has been announced as the date of the 2026 election. Announcing the date early in the New Year allows Southlanders to focus on the future. It also gives markets, businesses and investors certainty for the year to come. But before we look too far ahead, it’s also