Did you know Tama Potaka has been the Hamilton West MP for 100 days now?
Once elected, Tama Potaka was quickly confronted with the “wettest day on record” in his former home town and a deadly cyclone that saw the sitting of Parliament, and his maiden speech, postponed.
Quickly given responsibility in the National caucus in the form of the Māori development portfolio and associate housing, Potaka says he has enjoyed his first few months in the house but that “decision-making takes longer.”
Used to the celerity of business, he said that setting up his parliamentary and electorate offices and hiring staffers has consumed some of his time thus far and as a first-time politician, he was getting used to it.
“It’s harder than I thought it would be.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
-
76.6% Yes
-
22.1% No
-
1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Have you come across many roadworks sites recently?
The frustration of seeing a detour sign partway through your journey on the main highways possibly the new way forward when it comes to roadworks.
One of the latest areas to have a section of the road blocked off is State Highway 1 between Putāruru to Tokoroa as part of a massive renewal project that extends down to Waiouru.
Have you come across many roadworks sites recently?