Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds launched her 2023 election campaign yesterday (9 July), vowing to retain the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) and to allow it to make its own decision on whether to retain its highly successful zero fees regional initiative.

“Zero fees will go at the end of this year if the Government doesn’t change. It’s as simple as that,” Simmonds said.

 “National will get rid of the Government’s polytechnic mega-merger Te Pūkenga and SIT will be given the option of continuing with zero-fees.”

Simmonds told a gathering of around 70 people in Invercargill yesterday to take nothing for granted when it came to election day.

“It’s going to be a tough election – please don’t be complacent.”

“National will get the cost of living under control, deal with inflation, put a stop to wasteful spending, and deliver tax relief."

“We will look after the economy – you can trust us to do that.”

Simmonds said she felt privileged to have served as Invercargill MP since 2020.

“I have strived every day to do my best for this city, this province, and its people, but I feel like my work has only just begun."

“The South has the potential to be amazing. With the right infrastructure, good tax policies, and fewer regulations, our region can realise its full potential."

“Under Labour, people are struggling with the cost of living, with rent and mortgages and with making ends meet."

“They find it increasingly hard to access healthcare and fear increasing crime. Things must improve."

“I am determined to create change for the better in Invercargill and right across Southland, because I know that a National Government can get our great province back on track,” she said.