Angie Warren-Clark Labour MP

Thank you to everyone who stood for Local Body Elections, and a hearty congratulations to James Denyer, the new Mayor for the Western Bay of Plenty Council. I'm really looking forward to working with you!

The Government has launched a suite of digital tools for people affected by family violence. Traditional support services are now complemented by a new centralised 24/7 phone and online-chat service. If you need support, head to: areyouok.org.nz. For the new online space driving behaviour change for those who may use violence check out: inyourhands.org.nz Because hurt people, hurt people.

The ‘Our Marine Environment 2022' report released last week emphasised the need to cut plastic waste, improve water quality in our rivers and lakes, reduce sedimentation, and address climate change. Thankfully we're already taking action.

From October 1 we banned single-use plastic drink stirrers and cotton buds plus most plastic meat trays – from sale or manufacture to end the cycle. The Fisheries Amendment Bill, now before Parliament, will help ensure a more sustainable fishing future by reducing by-catch and increasing the use of cameras on fishing boats. Music to this recreational fishers' ears! Jobs for Nature has already supported 27 Bay of Plenty projects, including the phenomenal Bay Conservation Cadets, the Kaiate Falls planting project (let's make this spot swimmable!), and Project Parore.

New Zealand's focus on sustainability helped us achieve Free Trade Agreements with the UK and EU, underpinning our $53 billion record in agricultural exports. Let's keep resolving environmental pressures until it becomes second nature!