■ A year in review as Labour’s first woman spokesperson for agriculture, and newly appointed Labour candidate for the East Coast (soon to be East Cape), Jo Luxton.

It’s hard to believe that another year is drawing to a close. Like the ones before it, this year has been shaped by countless conversations – at kitchen tables and outside woolsheds – with healthcare professionals, farmers, teachers, local leaders and folk across the electorate and the country.

The year has been full of challenges and opportunities for our region, and no matter the sector, the message I’ve been hearing has been remarkably consistent. People want stability. They want bipartisanship on the big issues. And they want confidence that New Zealand has a future worth investing in.

One of the biggest hurdles for our region this year was the downgrade of Whakatāne Hospital’s maternity service to a primary birthing unit in January. This meant many East Coast women had to travel to Tauranga to give birth – a huge ask for families. The good news is that full maternity services will resume at Whakatāne Hospital in early 2026, and I want to acknowledge the incredible and committed hospital staff who have continued to provide care under such difficult circumstances.

That commitment is something I see every day in people across our region. Those working tirelessly to achieve equity and facilitate access to health services, housing, food, and community needs is the highlight of my role.

Jack Karetai-Barrett is a great example. After delivering his petition to Parliament to protect Māori wards in local government, he’s now collecting food donations for families this Christmas. It’s people like this who keep the spirit of our communities strong.

As we head into 2026, it’s so important to make sure you’re enrolled for next year’s general election. It’s how we all play a part in shaping the direction of our country, and your vote will matter.

Labour’s focus remains on building a New Zealand where jobs pay well and young people want to stay, raise families, and build their futures locally.

That means:

n Real action on the cost of living

n Decent work that pays the bills

n Access to healthcare close to home

n And affordable, warm, and safe quality housing.

For many, this hasn’t been an easy year. Job losses, major policy upheaval, rising homelessness, record numbers of New Zealanders leaving for opportunities offshore, and the increasing cost of putting food on the table has really stretched our whānau and communities.

That’s why Labour’s focus remains on standing alongside communities and valuing them, not just for what they produce, but for the people that they nurture.

Last month, I was honoured to be selected as Labour’s candidate for East Coast (soon to be East Cape). Representing the incredible East Coast, where I grew up, is a privilege, and I am committed to being a strong advocate for our region.  

Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard for our communities this year. Let’s keep working together for better outcomes for everyone.

My door is always open – I wish everyone across the electorate a safe Christmas and New Year. I look forward to continuing the conversations in 2026.