Speeches

Let me start by acknowledging the nuclear survivors, the people who lost their lives to nuclear war or testing, and all the peoples driven off their lands by nuclear testing, whose lands and waters were poisoned, and who suffer the inter-generational health effects of radiation exposure.

Environment Minister Hon David Parker - Address to Local Government New Zealand  Rural and Provincial Forum

I want to start by thanking Lisa and Steve from Business Events Industry Aotearoa and everyone that has been involved in organising and hosting this event.

It’s a pleasure to be here today in person “ka nohi ke te ka nohi, face to face as we look back on a very challenging two years when you as Principals, as leaders in education, have pivoted, and done what you needed to do, under challenging circumstances for your students and Staff, acknowledging your leadership, and courage.

Ambassadors, representatives of your many countries it pleases me to convey a special greeting to you all on this sacred land of Waikato Tainui.

Thank you to the Medical Association again for inviting me to join your conference this year. As I think we all know, the past two years have been exceptionally challenging for everyone.

The past two and a half years have been challenging for all of us, and especially for you as our educators. You have done amazing work during the COVID pandemic to support our children’s learning, whether in class or at home.

Firstly I would like to acknowledge Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika and the iwi that comprise the collective - Te Atiawa, Ngāti Tama, Taranaki, Ngāti Ruanui, and other iwi from the Taranaki area.

In New Zealand, oceans define our way of life – they determine our climate and shape this country culturally, recreationally, and economically.

As Minister for Economic and Regional Development it is my pleasure to support the release of the Draft Advanced Manufacturing Industry Transformation Plan for public consultation.