A neighbour took me along to a meeting recently to hear Clayton Mitchell, a city councillor and New Zealand First candidate for this electorate. He is young and enthusiastic.

The address was bright and interesting, covering some of the problems and aspirations of the city, all matters he is keen to be involved with. Route K is one example. It has become a financial milestone around the necks of ratepayers. Compounding interest has blown the debt out to a massive $64 million.

The value of this road is unquestioned, a quick easy access to the port for all those great trucks keeping them off Cameron Road, also providing a speedy route to the Waikato and beyond.

Clayton sees a solution in having the NZ Transport Agency take responsibility for the road and the debt, as part of the national roading system.

The National Party is just not interested at all. The Labour Party doesn't appear to know where Route K is.

Only the NZ First Party has the ability to resolve this issue.

Much debate surrounded the Rena but to conclude, I found it a great meeting, a lively debate with a good candidate. I came away inspired.

C Anderson, Tauranga City.