Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell has been confirmed as National’s candidate for the Tauranga electorate in the 2026 general election, describing his uncontested reselection as “a real honour” and a vote of confidence in his work to date.

“I’m looking forward to campaigning on my record of personally standing up for people in Tauranga,” Uffindell said, citing advocacy on the Tauranga Marine Precinct, state highway upgrades and efforts to secure a regional deal.

He thanked party members for their support.

“We have one of the highest memberships of any electorate in New Zealand, and I’m thankful to all our members and volunteers.”

Boundary changes

Electorate boundary changes for 2026 would shift Tauranga west, incorporating Te Puna, Minden, Wairoa, Lower Kaimai, Tauriko West, and additional areas of The Lakes and Pyes Pā.

The Bay of Plenty electorate would include Mount Maunganui and be renamed Mt Maunganui.

Regional priorities

Uffindell highlighted the potential for a regional deal between central and local government to address housing, transport, health and education needs.

“We need more affordable housing, more schools, improved health facilities and improved transit corridors. We have a beautiful city and enormous potential.”

He said he enjoyed engaging with the community. .

“I love visiting local businesses and seeing their ingenuity and creativity. I love that part of my job.”

Transport

Congestion won’t be solved overnight, Uffindell said, but progress is underway. Key projects include:

- Takitimu Northern Link (Stages 1 & 2)

- Tauriko West upgrades, including Stage 3 from Tauriko to Barkes Corner

- Proposed Mount Maunganui connections around Hewletts Rd

- Omanawa Bridge replacement

Upcoming RMA replacement legislation will cut red tape and speed delivery.

Housing

Housing remains a top priority, with fast-track projects at Tauriko West, Tara Rd and Bell Rd expected to unlock thousands of homes. Tauranga is among the top three regions being considered for a regional deal alongside Auckland and Queenstown Lakes.

Growth & affordability

Highlighting Tauranga’s role in the “Golden Triangle” with Auckland and Hamilton, rapid population growth, the country’s largest port, and a strong horticulture sector, Uffindell said he’s confident the region would receive its fair share of funding.

Affordability pressures remain, but indicators have improved, Uffindell said.

“Rents have stabilised after rising about $170 per week from 2017–2023. Price-to-income ratios have fallen, allowing more first-home buyers into the market.”

Public safety

Uffindell said safety has improved.

“You can see and feel it. It’s a lot safer walking around downtown Tauranga at night,” crediting targeted police units and strong government backing.

“Police appreciate that our Government gives them the tools they need.”

Health

Access to health services remained a priority. Tauranga would receive a new 24/7 urgent care service from 2026, alongside expanded after-hours and weekend care to ease pressure on Tauranga Hospital.

At Parliament, Uffindell chaired the Health Select Committee, AI Caucus, and PSC IST Committee, and co-chaired the Africa & Middle East Interparliamentary Friendship Group.

Education

Uffindell said education was another area of concern.

“Housing developments won’t proceed without guaranteed schooling,” Uffindell said, noting Ministry of Education frustrations and capacity issues in growth areas such as Tauriko West, Ōmokoroa, and Pāpāmoa East.

Standing up for Tauranga

Uffindell has challenged his own party and ministers on local issues, including opposing Plan Change 33 in Mount Maunganui, which raised building height limits despite community opposition.

“I publicly went out there and said they need to respect the community’s decision, so I jumped in front of the minister on that one,” he said.

He also criticised Tauranga City Council’s sale of the Marine Precinct.

“I’ll always be disappointed that council progressed with the sale despite widespread community concern. The council still hasn’t released its legal advice on the matter.”

Such episodes, he said, illustrate a broader problem.

“Too often the will of the people doesn’t come through and the interests of the big players trump the local community.”

Looking ahead

Ultimately, Uffindell said voters would judge him on results.

“That’s up to the voters. I just do my best to deliver and represent them every day.”

If re-elected, he promised Tauranga could expect greater recognition from central government.

“Tauranga is finally getting the recognition and respect it deserves. Serving the people of Tauranga is a privilege and I will do my best to ensure I get the opportunity again.”