Local MP and Trade Minister Todd McClay has been re-selected as the National Party candidate for the Rotorua electorate in the 2017 general election.

He says it is an honour to be the Rotorua electorate's Member of Parliament and a privilege to serve the Te Puke community, along with all New Zealanders.

'The last two years have seen a significant period of growth and development for the Rotorua electorate, which will provide wide benefit for everyone in our community,” says Todd.

'The Bay of Plenty region is humming, but there is still a great deal of work to do in order to ensure that continues.”

He says a number of key initiatives have been delivered for the electorate in recent years, but he is very pleased to have built on a strong relationship with the kiwifruit industry – a significant contributor to the New Zealand economy.

"Kiwifruit is a big employer and the backbone of the Bay of Plenty growth story. The industry is having one of its best years and has recovered well from PSA. I remain a staunch advocate for the benefits of the 'Single Desk.' It is delivering better returns for our growers.

'Over my eight years in parliament, the Government has focused on providing opportunities for young people. Achievement levels in local schools have increased as a result of hard work of our teachers and we have delivered more apprentice and trades training places at the Bay of Plenty and Waiariki Technical Institutes (Toi Ohomai).

'Government continues to invest in infrastructure to make the Bay of Plenty a productive and competitive economy. We have seen hundreds of millions invested in the Tauranga Eastern Link and local roads to deal with congestion and make our roads safer.

'I look forward to working with newly elected Mayor Webber and the Western Bay Council, as well as community organisations and local industry, to ensure continued growth and opportunity.”

Another important highlight for Todd since becoming Trade Minister has been the opportunity to promote Te Puke and the Bay to international trade partners.

'The Bay of Plenty punches above its weight as an export region and I have enjoyed working with local businesses to identify new opportunities for them overseas."

Todd was first elected to Parliament after defeating long-standing Rotorua MP Steve Chadwick in 2008 and 2011, and high-profile media personality Tamati Coffey in 2014, increasing his majority at each election.

He was appointed a Government Minister in 2013. In 2014 he was promoted to Cabinet, and in 2015 was promoted Minister of Trade. He is also the Minister of State Owned Enterprises, and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs.