SPONSORED CONTENT: New Zealand First Tauranga candidate, Erika Harvey, has her eyes sights set firmly on addressing some of Tauranga’s most critical issues.

Her primary driver is to see a stronger voice and better representation in Wellington, for Tauranga’s most pressing needs.

“We have an aging population and our healthcare system, transport and roading is currently unable to cope,” Says Erika. “We are seeing increasing levels of crime and we have to start demanding more support and a stronger focus from Wellington.”

“I just don’t believe we have had adequate representation from elected members. I believe I can be a more effective conduit between central and local government to deliver positive change for Tauranga in the areas our communities are concerned about.”

From dealing with roading issues to bringing democracy back to the local council, Erika is well tasked for the role.

“I am not running in this election because I want to be a politician. I am running because I am tired of seeing the same problems over and over again and people not being listened to,” says Erika. “I am tired of seeing the damage and division that happens when government doesn’t listen to the voices of the people they’re supposed to represent.”

“I am passionate about helping others navigate the bureaucratic system designed to make people give up, and I want to get in to change the way we work ‘with’ our community.”

Erika Harvey says she has a good track record of delivering on promises and commitments. Photo: Supplied.

Erika believes in co-designing innovative solutions for better community engagement.

“Our community needs to be a genuine part of the process. Most of the public don’t have time to go to public meetings or hearings; they’re either busy at work or with family matters,” says Erika. “We should be looking for more innovative solutions to engagement. The world is changing, yet community engagement by government has remained the same.”

“I will work hard to establish better ways to meet people and represent them. True community representation requires listening to all points of view, not just the ones you agree with, and designing solutions.”

Erika is well prepared for life in Parliament.

“I can work with people across all levels of an organisation and I have the ability to bring people together to find solutions and see their differences as strengths rather than weaknesses.”

“As a parent of a child with special needs, advocating and navigating bureaucratic systems is part of the battle. The experience I have had, battling the health and education system, and the extensive advocacy work I have done locally for the business sector, puts me in good stead to take that experience to Wellington, to do a better job for Tauranga.”

“I have experience as a small business owner, in governance roles and in corporate roles. I’m used to dealing with big egos and agendas. That will serve me well in Wellington!”

“I have a good track record on delivering on promises and commitments,” says Erika. “I will look for solutions and for ways to empower communities to solve problems.”

Erika Harvey is the New Zealand First candidate for Tauranga. For more information go to: http://www.erikaharvey.co.nz/

Authorised by: H. Howard, 41 Jervois Road, Ponsonby

-- Sponsored Content