Whenever Chloe Swarbrick visits Dunedin, which is quite frequently, she likes to joke that it is her second-favorite place in New Zealand. Of course, her first choice would have to be her electorate seat of Auckland Central.
But there is truth behind her jest. Swarbrick does indeed visit Dunedin often and spends more than just a fleeting moment in the city. This is not only due to personal preference, as she feels at home in the campus environment of the University of Otago, but also for professional reasons.
Dunedin has historically been a strong supporter of the Green Party, with high party vote numbers in previous elections. In the upcoming election, the Green Party is focusing on electing its candidate Francisco Hernandez as the electorate MP for Dunedin, rather than solely relying on party votes.
Swarbrick is confident in Hernandez’s ability to win the seat, citing his experience and community connections. She acknowledges the challenge of taking on the incumbent Labour MP but believes in the power of community support and grassroots campaigning.
While Labour is not backing down in Dunedin, Swarbrick emphasizes the importance of challenging traditional party strongholds and allowing voters to decide the future of their country.
The Green Party remains committed to environmental issues, recognizing the interconnectedness of human beings and nature. Swarbrick highlights the party’s long-standing emphasis on sustainability and the need to address systemic issues in the economy.
The rules of society are not set in stone like a game of Monopoly; we have the power to change them for the betterment of the majority. This sentiment has been at the heart of the Green Party’s values since its inception.
Looking back at the origins of the party, which was previously known as Values, one can see how the debate over the future of Lake Manapouri played a crucial role in its formation.
Now, as a new environmental battle brews in the South Island over a proposed gold mine in the Bendigo region, Green Party member Ms Swarbrick is quick to take notice. The party, led by Taieri list MP Scott Willis, has already been deeply involved in the fight against the mine, and will continue to champion the cause.
Scott Willis has been on the ground, speaking with locals and understanding the impact of the mine firsthand. The Fast-track approvals being granted across the country are further evidence of the threats posed by the current government to the lives and livelihoods of New Zealanders.
The Green Party remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the environment and advocating for the well-being of all New Zealanders in the face of these challenges.
For more information, contact mike.houlahan@odt.co.nz.
