I am standing to raise ACT's party vote in the Tukituki electorate. I am a member of the ACT party because I believe that individualism flourishes in a society that promotes freedom, democracy, equality and meaningful responses. My motivation for running is to gain more party votes for ACT with more members of Parliament representing these values. I also believe that freedom denied is equal to justice denied.

Prior to migration to New Zealand twenty years ago I had a successful career in sport and recreation management and administration. Between then and now I have completed a BA in history and politics. I'm also a local author writing about antiques and collectibles and the people who collect them; I also write for a local magazine. My husband and I are tourism operators living on a lifestyle block in a semi rural location. I have proven skills involving in-depth research and community connections.

I believe the world is on the cusp of a transformational change away from the framing of people and land as commercial 'resources' for the market to allocate. That neoliberal framing takes no account of the life-support functions of community and place upon which we all – including commerce – rely. That transformational change is now critical because loss/degradation of social and environmental function, not just in our climate, biota, water etc, but also in the decline of equity and democracy.

My whole life and work is associated with the complexities of land, people and economies. I have worked in the field, in policy, philosophy, governance, strategy, research and education. I'm a researcher and writer on the complexities of life and place.

I believe I can make a difference to the lives of people in Tukituki and New Zealand by being a strong and effective advocate in parliament. Hawke's Bay is well positioned post-Covid-19 with a strong export led economy. A key focus is required to maximise job opportunities and exports while managing tax payer money and borrowing for long term success. Better health services, a locally controlled EIT and water storage are priorities.

I am a strong advocate with experienced and proven leadership. I enjoy helping individuals and families and work hard to support people. I have lived in Hawke's Bay all my life and as the former mayor of Hastings for 16 years, I understand the issues and opportunities for Tukituki and our people.