Clayton Mitchell: For the good of the Bay

First National MP Clayton Mitchell. Photo/Andrew Warner

Last week, during the Parliamentary Recess, I had the privilege of linking The Good Neighbour Project with Fonterra's UHT certification programme in order to help provide more milk to more than twenty charities across Tauranga.

This positive outcome was in great part the result of various conversations with both Fonterra and The Good Neighbour over the last few months. But, it all began with initial conversations with Tauranga Women's Refuge and Homes of Hope during the last Parliamentary Recess. Both local charities expressed the need for more milk as part of their weekly supplies, with the aim of providing this milk to the many children to which they provide services.

I love the outcomes that we can achieve when we are working together. That is why I spend a great part of my time in Tauranga meeting with local charities, organisations, businesses and individuals, helping them connect with each other in new and creative ways. Together, we can form an infinite number of local teams, all working together for the good of the Bay and the Bay's New Zealanders.

I carry this same passion for teamwork with me to Parliament. While I may keep MPs under pressure in the House, with pointed and challenging questions; I also seek every opportunity to work alongside other MPs during the Select Committee process, where we get to work on the details of the various bills.

I am, after all, standing up for the best interest of New Zealand and New Zealanders. And in this, everyone is welcome to stand with me.