Tararua district’s tremendous community spirit stands out: Kieran McAnulty

Labour MP Kieran McAnulty. Photo / NZME

As Christmas and New Year approach, we often think back over the year. In some ways it is hard to believe we are in December already.

Thinking back over the year, the thing that stands out for me is the tremendous community spirit the Tararua district demonstrates time and time again.

No example has been more prominent than the support shown during the response and recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle, and which continues.

But the way the community joined together to oppose the proposed toll was a near second and remains a standout.

The toll is a stupid idea and a total breach of good faith by the Government. The Government changed the rules this year and instructed NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi to consider tolling as a way to pay for new roads – but that shouldn’t include a replacement road that is only months from being completed.

The Transport Minister has a problem because he has overpromised to the tune of $6 billion and needs to find some money. But we should not be stung because his budget doesn’t add up. Also, the Te Ahu a Turanga-Manawatū Tararua Highway is already paid for.

No matter how you look at it, the proposal doesn’t stack up.

The way the Tararua district rallied to push back on this was truly inspiring. The Woodville public meeting was the largest I have been to. The Dannevirke meeting had the same spirit. It was a credit to the organisers and the community for standing up and saying “we’re not going to take it”.

It was incredibly disappointing that the National MPs from both sides of the gorge refused to stand alongside the community and publicly oppose the toll. It was even more disappointing that the Minister of Transport refused to front. But I was proud to join residents alongside Tangi Utikere, Labour’s transport spokesperson and MP for Palmerston North, in pushing against it.

I want to acknowledge Tararua District Mayor Tracey Collis for the fierce opposition she put forward with support from the local councillors. We haven’t given up and still have hope the Government will see sense.

What a wonderful Christmas present that would be.

The spirit of the Tararua district is also shown in the determined fight against the proposed Makomako windfarm. These people have done their bit, with a windfarm already on their doorstep. There is no question that we need more renewable energy, but there are so many places throughout the Tararua district that are better suited and not near so many people. Just like the affected residents of Mt Munro, they’re not taking it sitting down and I commend them for their grit.

If there was a theme of the year, I would suggest it is “don’t mess with the Tararua district”.

I acknowledge that while the Reserve Bank has done its job and interest rates are dropping, things are still tough for a lot of people. I hope that over the Christmas and New Year period you’re all able to find some time to be with those you love, reflect on the year that has been and toast good times ahead.

Sincere best wishes to you all.