Maori MP opens new Tok office
Until now Te Tai Hauauru Maori Electorate MP Adrian Rurawhe has had to share offices with various colleagues so opening his very own in Tokoroa has understandably excited him.
The Wanganui based Labour politician said it has been a long time coming.
‘‘It is part of my electorate that has really been left out due to the huge area it covers. We have had to spread spending out and I am really keen to finally be getting an office there,’’ he said.
‘‘We have leased an office space in Mannering St which has taken a lot longer than expected to fit out because builders are so busy in Tokoroa. I guess it is a good thing really.
Rurawhe said he has employed a local woman to help run the office which is expected to open in August.
‘‘There are a number of functions required of a good MP and part of that is to help give assistance where it is required so the office will be open to all and will be a place people will know they can come and be heard, ‘‘he said.
He said it would also be an opportunity to boost his profile in the South Waikato.
‘‘I visited different places in the South Waikato a few months back and was amazed by how many people spoke about the pressures of housing,’’ he said.
‘‘New Zealand’s housing crisis has meant most people are moving south out of places like Hamilton and it is having a significant impact on available housing locally. There are a number of housing issues my staff are having to deal with including finding appropriate houses for people to live.’’
He said he also hopes to address difficulties caused by the lack of adequate local heath services.
‘‘We have to look at better transport options for those living in rural areas that need to go to Hamilton for appointments and operations and I will be looking into this,’’ he said.
‘‘Having an ambulance at the bottom of the hill is not good for the long term health and wellbeing of the community. If you put investment into primary health care and health promotion it saves a lot of money in the long term.’’