Labour leader Chris Hipkins tours state house site and local grocer in New Plymouth

Chris Hipkins made his inaugural provincial swing to New Plymouth, beginning with a walkthrough of a state-house under construction where he exchanged stories about his summer deck project with local builders. He later visited the independent grocer Spudz Produce, helping staff pack several $20 fruit and vegetable boxes alongside Barbara Edmonds and candidate Amanda Clinton-Gohdes, highlighting the affordability of the produce.

At a crowded gathering in the Plymouth International Hotel, Hipkins praised Labour’s plan for 3,000 new state houses and the Apprenticeship Boost scheme, while emphasizing preventative health measures. He answered extensive questions on aged-care, timber-industry safety, and the need for better road maintenance, especially concerning the Awakino Gorge route. Firefighters raised concerns about Fire and Emergency New Zealand, prompting Hipkins to promise a thorough review involving experienced firefighters. The event underscored Labour’s push to diversify Taranaki’s economy beyond oil and gas.