Waikato MPLindsay Tisch

As we draw to the end of the year it is only natural to reflect on the past year and look forward to the new year’s opportunities.

It was heartening for me at the general election to receive the largest personal majority of my parliamentary career, but more importantly, it was a real delight to see a National-led government reelected so that we can continue to bring policies forward that improve the lives of all New Zealanders.

One of those policies that will benefit our electorate is the free trade agreement with the Republic of Korea. With tariffs up to high as high as 43 per cent on some products the removal of these barriers for our exporters over the next few years will make a more level playing field.

When the Prime Minister visited the electorate in the lead up to the election it was great to hear him announce the Government’s commitment for UHF broadband roll-out to the Matamata, Te Aroha and Morrinsville area. This will be another positive opportunity for local businesses as they work to keep their competitive edge.

The progress on the Waikato Expressway is heartening to see and already we are travelling on some of the completed sections. With the completion date on track this will soon bring benefits to the whole region as the movement of vehicles becomes more streamlined.