November Twenty20 Internationals.

On 9th and 10th November, Saxton Oval in Nelson hosted two Twenty20 International cricket matches. The Sunday game was a sell-out, with New Zealand narrowly winning, while the Monday match was unfortunately washed out due to rain. The matches brought together a mix of personalities from the cricketing world, both on and off the field.

Based on these experiences and the enthusiasm surrounding the matches, I believe Nelson will continue to host international cricket events in the future—whether men’s or women’s internationals. There is already anticipation for the upcoming North v South women’s matches in December of this year, with three games scheduled and free entry for spectators. I plan to attend these games, which serve as trials for the White Ferns’ Twenty20 squad.

The maximum crowd size at Saxton Oval is 6000 and that was achieved on Sunday. I spoke to the events manager who helps get the games to Nelson. He told me that with a crowd like that, Nelson is destined to host more International Cricket in the future.

Capital Gains Tax.

In my opinion, New Zealand should introduce a Capital Gains Tax to better fund hospitals, the education system, and public services. Australia has had such a tax since the 1980s. The National Government often compares New Zealand’s tax system to Australia’s, claiming we pay more tax, even though that isn’t accurate. My mum says it’s like comparing apples to pears, as the National Party does, which doesn’t make sense. New Zealand is one of only 20 countries worldwide without a Capital Gains Tax. Right-wing media outlets like TVNZ and the New Herald oppose it and attempt to portray it negatively, but I believe it’s long overdue.

Patrick Gower.

On 20th October, I met, former Newshub journalist, Patrick Gower who now works at Radio New Zealand. He was in Nelson to visit a friend and was very down earth and friendly. It was so nice to meet Patrick Gower.

Broncos.

On October 6th, I was overjoyed when the Brisbane Broncos won the NRL for the first time since 2006, defeating their arch-rivals, the Melbourne Storm, 26–22. It was an excellent match—Reece Walsh stood out and earned the Clive Churchill Medal for Man of the Match. I must also note Pat Carrigan, Kontani Stagg, Adam Reynolds, Jordan Riki and Payne Hass and so many other Broncos.

As a dedicated Broncos supporter (and also a fan of the Sharks, Warriors, and Cowboys), this victory was especially meaningful after their heartbreaking loss to Penrith in 2023.

The win lifted my spirits following a tough year marked by personal losses, including my friend Sean Remnant, my dog Harry, and significant life changes. I dedicate this victory to them, and to Police Sergeant Lyn Fleming for her service to the Nelson community.

Richard Chambers.

On 29th September, I met Police Commissioner Richard Chambers in Nelson during Police Remembrance Day. He was very down to earth and it was a privilege to meet him again; my first meeting with Mr. Chambers was in January 2025. Previously, I also met former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster at Parliament in June 2021.

 

The Equity Pay Bill.

I think this Government is very bad for working people. On Saturday 20th September, I went to protest the Equity Pay bill. This Government is cutting women’s pay to give to rich people like themselves which is wrong in my opinion. I hope this Government gets voted out in 2026.

Rory.

I have an American Friend called Rory whom I have known for over ten years. He has autism like me. I always enjoying talking to Rory. He walked from Nelson to Tauranga at the end of last year and he is in his early 70s.

Erica Stanford.

I believe our current Prime Minister will be rolled before Christmas by Erica Stanford who is the immigration minister. I met her once, way back 2021 and she had no idea about how to interact with people with disabilities. I remember our Meeting starting eight minutes late through her clumsy behaviour. Erica wasn't easy to talk to and I think she is out of touch with ordinary people. Erica only understands wealthy people and lives on the North Shore. Her Electorate is called East Coast Bays.

Harry.

On 25th August, my beloved mate Harry the dog was put to sleep at the great age of 14. Harry was lots fun and he loved me. I met Harry in August 2019 at my friend's place, where he spent time with Harvey, another dog. Nicky, the owner of the house, used to take Harry for walks. After Nicky's dog's passing, Harry and Harvey, a black Labrador, were assigned as "Covid Dogs" during the lockdown period. As Harry aged, he became slower. Harry will be remembered for his presence and role in these events. I will miss Harry heaps and I thank him for everything. Harry you were a Joy and it was a privilege to know you. Thank you Harry.

Picton Ferry Terminal.

The government's management of the Ferries has been poor. When I visited Picton in March, the main terminal was closed and replaced by a temporary one, which is still operating. The government has spent $628 million on the Ferries. Nicola Willis reminds me of Ruth Richardson in the early 1990s—out of touch and lacking direction.

Rugby.

On August 9th, I attended the Tasman Mako's first home game against the Manawatu Turbos. The Mako have five home games scheduled in Nelson, facing Manawatu, Otago, and Counties, while Blenheim will host matches against Waikato and Auckland. During the event, I met several Manawatu Turbos players who also represent the Wellington Hurricanes in Super Rugby—a team I travel to Wellington to watch. The Mako secured a decisive victory with a score of 49 to 17. I plan to attend additional games in Nelson.

MeetingMP'S

On 7th August, I met several Labour Members of Parliament, including former Internal Affairs Minister Jan Tinetti. I also met Priyanca Radhakrishnan and Jo Luxton, both of whom have served as Cabinet Ministers. The meeting took place at Pics Peanut Butter in Stoke. Camila Belich, Damien O'Connor, and Barbara Edmonds were visiting flood-affected areas in Tasman and were unable to attend. I am a member of the NZ Labour Party.  

Trump.

I think Donald Trump is frankly dangerous and I believe he is the sort of individual who could start world war three. The New Zealand Government simply sucks up to him, accepting a 15 Per Cent tariff where the UK and Europe are given 10 per cent. Donald Trump has never been told no in his life. In our house we call him Orange Jesus. He should be in jail.

International Cricket.

I'm delighted that Saxton Oval will host two Twenty20 International cricket matches against the West Indies, who, along with Sri Lanka, have each visited Nelson four times since international cricket began there in 2014.   

Meeting the Players.

On 16 July, I met with former All Blacks Finlay Christie (Halfback) and David Havill (Centre), whom I have previously met. They are playing for the Tasman Mako in the NPC, a competition popular in regional New Zealand. The Mako have five home games and five away games. Home games against Manawatu, Otago, and Counties will be held in Nelson, while the matches against Auckland and Waikato will take place in Blenheim. I plan to attend the home games in Nelson.

Floods.

I've never seen so much rain in Nelson; recent storms were truly frightening. Many roads in Nelson, Marlborough, and Tasman were closed due to the severe weather. It was said to be the worst rainfall since 1941, and I hope we don’t experience it again. 

School Years.

I attended Saint Joseph’s School from September 1989 to December 1994. Although school wasn’t my favourite, I appreciated some teachers there, especially Mr. McGrath at Central School, who supported me without medication for anxiety and depression. My best school year was 1993, when I was in form one and went on memorable trips to Marahau Camp and Bark Bay in Abel Tasman National Park. Overall, there were good teachers at Saint Joseph’s during my time there.