This being my last column for 2021, I thought I’d take the opportunity to reflect on the year that‘s been – a year that’s seen some positive developments, but also some very difficult times as a result of COVID-19.

All of us have had to adapt in various ways this year. For me it’s meant at times chairing Select Committee meetings from my lounge via zoom, and running my Invercargill office remotely. 

For others the impacts have been much more significant, with tourism and hospitality businesses in particular experiencing the flow-on effects of the Delta outbreak in Auckland and the wider COVID-19 pandemic. 

Looking back over the past year though, it’s good to see just how far we’ve come, with over 90% of eligible Southlanders now vaccinated against COVID-19 and new antiviral drugs on the way. As a country, we’ve also had the lowest number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations and deaths per capita in the OECD.

Other areas have also seen progress despite global challenges this year. 

On the regional development front, border closures have made it harder for some businesses to recruit skilled workers, and shortages of builders and other tradespeople have at times led to building project delays.

However, it’s been a good year for anyone wanting to take up an apprenticeship, with the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF) covering the cost of fees for apprenticeships and targeted trades training in the primary industries, building and construction, and community and mental health. Similarly, the Apprenticeship Boost payment has provided extra support to help employers retain and take on new apprentices. 

The latest data shows more than 170,000 people nationwide have taken advantage of free trades training since the TTAF was introduced, with 32% being enrolled in construction-related programmes, including apprenticeships.

COVID-19 has also been tough on families and has contributed to an increase in the cost of living. However, a number of recent changes will put more money in the pockets of families on the lowest incomes. 

For me as a former child health advocate, it was an incredibly significant moment to be sitting in the debating chamber on Budget Day this year when Finance Minister Grant Robertson announced a historic increase in benefit rates. A $20 per week increase on 1 July, followed by further increases on 1 April next year, will see benefits increasing by between $32 and $55 a week per adult, as a result of Budget 2021.  

Changes to abatement thresholds on 1 April this year also means those working part-time can earn more per week before their benefit starts to decrease. Taken together, these changes will make a real difference for many families, allowing parents to put more food on the table and to turn the heater on in winter. 

The impacts of COVID-19 have also meant a difficult year for Southern tourism operators. While the Wage Subsidy and Resurgence Support Payment have helped many through this difficult time, Jobs for Nature has not only provided flexible job opportunities for those impacted by the tourism downturn, but also a significant boost for the environment. 

Funded projects locally have included the Undaria control programme in Fiordland, Te Tapu o Tāne project that will set up native plant nurseries to support catchment rehabilitation in Southland, and the Fiordland Buffer Zone project which will help protect the biodiversity of Fiordland National Park through weeding projects along the park boundary.

Projects like these will mean as the borders start to open next year, more visitors will be able to enjoy the unique biodiversity that Southland has to offer.

As the year draws to a close, I’m hoping all of you will be able to take a well-deserved break and spend time with friends and family. 

My Invercargill office is closing for the year on Monday 20 December and reopening on Monday 24 January. My team and I wish you all a merry and safe Christmas.

Published by arrangement