Scott Simpson
MP for Coromandel

The big and unexpected news has been the resignation of the Prime Minister John Key. Mr Key has been a good friend to our region and I’ve hosted him on many occasions over the years.

It’s been an absolute privilege to work with John Key and to serve in the National Party caucus he has led. His optimistic demeanour and open personality has got us through the good times and the bad. He leaves our country more successful and self-assured than when he became Prime Minister.

Bill English has been chosen as our next Prime Minister, the transition will be smooth and he has my full support. He has immense political experience and has done an outstanding job of growing and managing our economy. I’m certain New Zealand will continue to prosper under his leadership.

Finally, the warmer weather and influx of people to our region marks the beginning of the holiday season. Summer is finally here. I hope everybody enjoys a safe and happy holiday.

It was great to have Hon. Craig Foss, Minister for Small Business, visit our wonderful piece of New Zealand. We were in Tairua, where the Minister had a really productive meeting with the local business network. It was terrific to see the passion that locals have for making small businesses work in our communities.

The 78th Waihi A & P Show

While the weather wasn’t too flash when I attended the 78th Waihi A & P Show, it didn't dampen another very successful show. I’d like to thank Jon-Brian Parker, the Association’s President, and his committee for their hard work.

Katikati Senior School prize giving

I really enjoyed the Katikati College's senior prize-giving ceremony. It’s great to see students recognised for their academic and athletic successes. It was Principal Neil Harray's last prize-giving and he’s done an outstanding job during his time at the helm.

Athenree Fire Brigade

It was an honour to attend the final awards night for the Athenree fire brigade before they merged with the Waihi Beach fire brigade to form the Mayor View.

Summer Exhibition – Thames Art

It was great to support the local arts scene when I opened the Thames Society of Arts Summer Exhibition. I was even given a chance to try my hand at painting, but as you can see, a career as an artist isn’t in my future.

Community feature – A Place at the Table

There’s something very special about sharing a meal with others on Christmas Day. For the last four years, a team of dedicated Thames volunteers have hosted a community lunch, free and open to all.

It started when local businessman Adrian Cattran was chatting with friends about some people being alone at Christmas time. His friends’ scepticism that he would do something spurred him on to create the inaugural Christmas lunch for 40 people. “A Place at The Table Trust” was duly established with Pak ‘n’ Save and Mitre 10 leading the list of business sponsors.

Last Christmas, volunteers started preparing the meal for 180 guests at 5am and that was on top of the set-up work done the night before in the hall. Local Police officers attended in mufti to help out and St John personnel provided a transport shuttle and support too.

Each year the delicious and nutritious lunch is presented by the volunteers waiting on tables decorated with festive cheer.

It’s a traditional Kiwi Christmas menu of new potatoes, roast kūmara, ham and lamb served along with trifle and Christmas pudding, courtesy of Four Square. And don’t worry if you’re vegan, the volunteers can cater for you too.

And of course, you can’t have Christmas without Santa or carols, so there is music, singing and a visit from the jolly red gentleman himself.

Please contact Adrian at 07 868 6003 if you would like to help as a volunteer or perhaps make a donation to the Trust for this Christmas.

Sport Waikato Hauraki/Thames-Coromandel Sports awards

I recently attended the Sport Waikato Hauraki/Thames-Coromandel Sports awards. It was a great event. Check out my video with Whangamata’s Ella Williams, who was named Sportsperson & Personality of the Year.

Kind regards,

Scott Simpson
MP for Coromandel

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