Milson Rotary Club welcomed the four leading Palmerston North candidates to present their personal and party views to our members and guests. The four Candidates – sitting MPs Tangi Utikere (Labour), Teanau Tuiono (Greens ), Ankit Bansal (National) and Mike Harnett (Act). They were all given 6 minutes to introduce themselves and give us an overview of their Policies. Thanks to Mike for stepping in for Andrew Hoggard, who could not attend. After each candidate spoke, the floor was opened for some questions.
Mike Harnett is the Palmerston North Act party candidate and is a well-known PN personality. He grew up in Palmerston North. He is a rugby referee practising Physiotherapist and previously owned a popular fitness gym in Palmerston North. Mike focused on the ACT Policies of less government, less red tape, rewarding those who choose to work hard and being tougher on crime. He would also like more policies directed toward our rural communities and farmers.
Teanau Tuiono is the sitting list MP for the New Zealand Green Party. He spoke about his commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice. He advocates progressive policies to tackle climate change, protect natural resources, foster social equality, and make housing accessible to all. He also believes in recognising the Treaty of Waitangi as our founding document and where Maori and Pacifica cultures are respected and honoured.
Tangi Utikere is the sitting MP for Palmerston North, representing the Labour Party. He says he enjoys being an MP and has made much effort to be visible and approachable in our community. Tangi became Chair of the Health Select committee in May this year and was appointed Chief Government Whip. He was proud that he got two pieces of legislation through Parliament and into law. He is also a strong advocate for local transport, managing to secure the future of the Capital Connection for Palmerston North. Tangi’s campaign revolves around key issues such as healthcare access, improved education outcomes, environmental sustainability and affordable public housing (e.g. Papaieoa Place).
Ankit Bansal is the National Party candidate for Palmerston North. Ankit was selected in March 2023. Since then, he has been meeting constituents who have been highlighting issues they would like to address. His campaign is focusing on critical issues like reducing the cost of living. He would like to address Law and Order to make people feel safer. Law breakers should be made accountable, but also there should be efforts to break the cycle. Ankit wants to improve the education system by returning the focus to basics. He will also advocate for reducing the bureaucracy preventing immigrant health professionals from becoming registered in NZ.
Disclaimer: Milson Rotary Club is a non-political and non-religious organization that warmly welcomes individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their race, colour, religion, gender, or political preferences. Any views expressed by candidates or participants are solely their own, and they do not in any way reflect the stance or opinions of Milson Rotary Club or its members. We value diversity, inclusivity, and the open exchange of ideas within the bounds of our non-political and non-religious principles.