A Christmas message from Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford

Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford and his partner Hannah.

Opinion

As 2024 winds down, it’s a great time to look back at everything we’ve been through together as a country, electorate, and community.

Being your Bay of Plenty MP, I’ve tried to get out and about as much as possible, meeting constituents, local groups, schools and businesses while also making sure our voice is heard in Parliament. As a local myself, I get what it’s like living here - the good and the challenging bits - which is why I’ve made meeting with as many of you as possible my top priority.

To make it easier to catch up, I’ve been getting out of the office and into the community.

Attending some community markets was a fantastic way to connect, and the conversations and feedback have been great - thank you!

Our coffee catchups at cafes across the Bay have worked well too. These casual chats have led to some important issues being raised, which we’ve been able to follow up on. I’ve also started holding clinics at our retirement villages, making it easier for residents to have their say without having to travel to my electorate office.

As someone who used to be a volunteer firefighter, I have a real soft spot for our community groups. I’ve tried to get to as many local events as I can to support these amazing organisations. I’ve met some incredible people along the way and made plenty of new friends.

We’re lucky to have such a diverse business scene in the Bay of Plenty - from small family-owned operations to big companies. Visiting these businesses has really shown me just how much our region is growing and thriving.

I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported me this past year - whether you stopped by for a coffee chat, caught up with me at the markets, or shared your thoughts and concerns. Your support means so much and helps me be a better voice for our community. Here’s wishing you and your families a wonderful Christmas and all the very best for 2025!