Lack of homes, wages a worry

Lack of housing, low wages and benefits, and polluted waterways are the key concerns for voters on the streets of Masterton, Carterton and Featherston.

The Wairarapa electorate is home to more than 67,000 people, with 50,000-plus over the age of 18. Most of the population is based in a number of small towns, Masterton being the largest.

It is best known for its strong agriculture-based economy, which includes the classic beef, dairy and sheep industries as well as Martinborough’s wine sector.

But the impact of agriculture on local waterways has emerged as a major issue for the electorate.

Local legend tells of the region being named by Ma¯ ori explorer Huanui, with Wairarapa translating to glistening waters.

According to a 2012 Greater Wellington Regional Council report, however, Wairarapa’s streams are threatened in areas of heavy farming, by faecal bacteria and high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus.

Another common concern was housing. Data from Parliament’s electoral profile for Wairarapa, last published in 2015, reported only 52 per cent of households in the region owned their dwelling.

Carterton Mayor John Booth said housing was definitely an issue, particularly with rental properties. ‘‘There’s basically none in Carterton.’’

Some voters were concerned that wages and benefits did not cover the cost of living. The median income for individuals in the Wairarapa, according to the electorate profile was $25,900, compared to $28,500 nationwide.

For families, the difference was even more stark, with Wairarapa sitting at $62,000, while the New Zealand average was $72,700.

Booth did not believe current benefits and wages covered the cost of living in Carterton.

The current MP, Alastair Scott, faces a tough challenge from Labour’s Kieran McAnulty and Ron Mark, of NZ First. An independent candidate is also standing.

❚ Article written by students from Massey University School of Journalism.