Jacqui Dean holds Waitaki
Waitaki's incumbent, National MP Jacqui Dean has sealed a sixth term with 3168 majority win over her nearest challenger, Labour’s Liam Wairepo.
Dean trailed on at least two occasions during the counting but eventually pulled clear, winning with 17,615 votes to Wairepo’s 14,447.
The significance of the Labour swing is seen in the fact that Dean had retained her seat in 2017 with a massive 12,816 margin.
Dean said it had been a “watershed election”, with the tide turning away from the National Party.
However, she was “delighted” to be re-elected as an MP.
“I’ve been an MP since 2005 and I still pinch myself every day and I think how lucky I am.
“The party will have to take stock, but I am proud to be an MP and will continue to hold the Government to account.”
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.7% Second half of November
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43.4% 1st December
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17.6% A week before Christmas
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33.2% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.9% Yes
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14.3% No
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2.8% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.