Electorate boundary confirmation

Covid-19 has drastically affected New Zealand, our electorate, the way we work and do business. The vast majority of New Zealanders have been doing what has been asked of them, and that’s a good thing, but as the weeks drag out the real impacts on people’s lives and livelihoods are being to emerge and take a profound toll on individuals, families and businesses.

Alert Level 3 still means working from home and staying at home for most people.

Staying in our bubbles, even if slightly extended, remains key. Travel is limited, and the advice is that we should not move out of our homes unless necessary.

As I write this, the numbers of new Covid-19 cases continue to decrease, but as we’ve already seen, this virus should be taken very seriously. We need to continue to practice social distancing, keep practising good hygiene and, above all, staying at home unless absolutely necessary.

Happily, some local businesses are open for business via online orders and phone orders and using contactless delivery and pick up methods. Now is the very best time to please support local businesses and make use of these alternatives when and how possible.

Doing so shows support in our community for those who have had their businesses completely disrupted these last six long weeks. Your custom will never be more appreciated than now and over the coming months.

The Electoral Commission has released its final report on the 2020 electorate boundaries. This means that, at the stroke of a pen, Ōmokoroa and the surrounding area has been moved into the Coromandel Electorate. I’m looking forward to getting to know local folk and the community and to picking up on the great work that’s been done by my friend and colleague Bay of Plenty MP, Todd Muller.

Authorised by Scott Simpson MP, 614 Pollen St, Thames.