As the great grandson of Labour Prime Minister Sir Walter Nash, I have always had a strong interest in politics and the principles around ‘equality of opportunity’. However, I knew it was important to get educated, experience the world, and build a career before entering the political arena.

Most of my working life has been as a businessman. After a stint working in Japan, I started in the forestry sector with Fletcher Challenge and then Carter Holt Harvey. After this I changed tack for 8 years and imported and traded petrochemical derivatives, with a focus on the Middle East and Asia. I then worked at AUT and worked as the Director of Strategic Development, before coming to Napier to follow my political passion.

My overseas travel has shown me that New Zealand is the best country in the world to live, work and raise children. My career has given me the ability to understand what drives an economy and has provided me with many ideas on how we can improve the economic performance of this wonderful country. My experience in the education sector reinforced my belief that education is of paramount importance for driving positive economic, social and cultural outcomes.

Believing in Napier

I was born and raised in Napier, and am fiercely proud of this city. My kids are the fifth generation of my family to attend Napier Central School since it opened in 1879. I am passionate and committed in advocating for what I believe is right for this city and its people. This can involve the individual level where people come into my office seeking advice or help, through to creating and driving a vision for what I believe will create better outcomes for Napier: fighting for what I believe Napier should be in 10, 15 or 20 years’ time.

Community and Economic Solutions

We need solutions to the issues affecting our communities. Calls to radically change the region’s governance are no panacea for the challenges our city faces. We need to create sustainable growth that provides employment for our workers, wealth for the city and a reason for our children to remain, or return and settle in Napier. We must get the economic conditions right so that companies view Napier as the preferred place to set up a business or relocate a company. This same ethos needs to be applied in Hastings and Wairoa.

Tourism Hub

I believe Napier must rise to the challenge of becoming the preeminent holiday destination for New Zealand families. Our iconic Marine Parade must be at the heart of that vision, and we need new ideas on how to develop and use this asset. But it doesn't stop there. For Napier to become the tourist destination of choice, we need to implement world-leading best practice. I will commit to help develop that plan, lead the debate and be the loudest voice around the cabinet table when money needs to flow into specific projects.

Most importantly, we need to have pride in our city. I am from Napier first and Hawkes Bay second. I hate hearing people put down or criticise Napier without offering a solution. We should never accept mediocrity but always strive to do better and work smarter to ensure that Napier is the best city in the greatest country in the world. This is why I love being an MP here. It’s why I will always be willing to roll up my sleeves and get stuck in to fight for what I believe is right for both the people and the city of Napier.

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