Election Debate held in Piopio

Birdtalk Magazine Oct/Nov 2023

KING COUNTRY River Care (KCRC) held a candidate’s debate early in September in Piopio, and hope residents left a little more informed ahead of this year’s election.

Candidates were treated to a full house at the Fat Owl, with close to 120 people in attendance. The community heard from current Taranaki- King Country MP and National candidate Barbara Kuriger, as well as Labour list MP Angela Roberts, former Federated Farmers president Andrew Hoggard who is standing for ACT in Rangitikei, and independent candidate Bill Burr.

Each candidate was asked to prepare a 10-minute address which focused on their parties’ ideas and solutions for rural and farming communities. Max Lamb, Te Kuiti based lawyer chaired the debate, which was followed by a 30-minute Q&A session from the floor.

Reon Verry, Chair KCRC says, “KCRC wanted to host this event as there is so much going on in terms of polices and regulations that could have a material impact on farming, which then flows through to our communities. Rural communities, farmers and all primary industries are facing increasing challenges. This event aimed to provide our community with the opportunity to learn more about some of the parties standing for election, their policies and how they plan to solve and work with rural communities to ensure they continue to thrive."