Freedom regarding our environment, our bodies and our choices, have been eroded one by one over time and I am standing as a candidate in this election to help implement solutions that can reverse that and to encourage people to claim back their own power and freedoms. I would also like to oversee and support the cannabis referendum that I helped initiate, to stop the unnecessary yet rampant persecution and prosecution as well as to make it easily accessible and affordable for those who need it!

Many people in this country have devastatingly suffered, yet their voices have not been heard. I know because I am one of them. I was brought up lost in the welfare system, stigmatized in the school system, used and abused in the health system and targeted by the justice system. And yet, I could always find the silver lining. I strive for a happy, healthy community and environment where our children can thrive and I will never give up until we succeed. Localism and freedom of choice is key here.

I believe in a country where the citizens have a say in how the country is run and that the government is there to serve it's people. I am concerned about the breakdown in families and the increasing mental health issues in our youth so I will ensure the government place priority for our young people by supporting and investing in family relationships. For our people to believe in themselves they need a hand up by equipping and empowering them. Actions not words or unkept promises.

After teaching all levels in Christchurch primary schools for the past 15 years I founded a charitable trust in the heart of East Christchurch supporting women and families. Through my teaching and life experience I am able to empower women and families to value their contribution to society by equipping them with skills for successful parenting and future career opportunities. I also work alongside agencies supporting children who have experienced a history of trauma. Education is key for success.

I have had the privilege of serving the community and I know how important a thriving community is to the health, wellbeing and resilience of us all. The recent Lockdown demonstrated how we care for each other. I believe many solutions to long term problems such as family violence, lie in strengthening our communities and the NGO sector. I also come to Parliament to do what I can to make Aotearoa a safe place for our kids to thrive and reach their full potential.

I'm a mum and grandmum and spent much of my professional life serving in various community roles. I'm a keen (if uninformed) sports watcher, though my days of playing are mostly behind me, I keep fit by jogging as many days as I can down the beautiful Marine Parade. I hold an MBA and started my DBA, but gave this study away to serve the people of Christchurch East. My family came from the Cook Islands in the late 1950's and I am Cook Island Kiwi, supporting the Christchurch Pacific community.

I believe it is time for Māori and Pākehā Christians in Aotearoa to stand with one accord and champion the voice of righteousness, justice, truth and freedoms in our land. The church has played the silent, victimised and battered partner for too long – afraid to speak out against the lawlessness, injustices and ungodliness ravaging our families, our homes, our society. Enough is enough! It's time. We have a voice! It's time to be heard! No longer can we stay silent in this most urgent hour.

I'm exceptionally passionate about education and learning, particularly when it comes to helping young people and women achieve success in all areas of their lives.  With a 20-year professional teaching background, 3 years as an online business mentor and coach, 17 years in church ministry and a lifetime of working with whanau – I think it is fair to say that being highly driven, self-motivated and dedicated to helping others succeed – is at the core of my life's greatest ambitions!