Despite our differences, it was clear to me at least that we are united — and maybe sometimes even because of — our differences — by the commitment we all have to New Zealand and our desire for it to be the best place for families and communities. By the time those winter crops are all eaten we’ll be knocking on the door of the general election, November 7. This builds on 2025’s record-setting $60.4b — from meat and wool to kiwifruit and cherries, our producers are remarkable. An example of this is the new dialysis unit which opened at Southland Hospital on Monday. Being able to have the treatment closer to home will make a big difference and also reduce pressure on Dunedin.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 12, 2026 15:34 UTC