Viewpoint – Honouring our history

I am excited and grateful to have remained as the local MP for this area, following the recent election. Thanks to everyone who took part, no matter how you chose to exercise your democratic right. I look forward to keep working with everyone in Auckland’s rural north who shares my desire for a greater share of attention and resources to be obtained for here.

In addition, I’ve picked up a handful of roles in the new government. One that I’m particularly passionate about is the Minister for Veterans. It’s hugely important that we honour and remember those who have served this country with such distinction over the years. I suspect that a large number of readers of Mahurangi Matters would agree with me on this score, based on the very healthy turnout at Anzac Day in Warkworth (and other ceremonies around the wider area) each year.

Warkworth is blessed with an active and engaging RSA, which connects beautifully with this community in the conduct of such commemorations. The reflections offered by senior students of Mahurangi College are always a highlight, for example.

The area is also well served, from the veterans’ perspective when it comes to Warkworth Museum and Heritage Mahurangi. Both organisations have been instrumental in highlighting the historical significance of US Marine troops being based in the area during World War II.

I was very pleased to attend the opening ceremony of some restored army huts at the museum a couple of years ago and earlier this month to witness the outstanding display put on by current and former NZ Defence Force personnel on Queen Street, Warkworth … to say nothing of the Tiger Moths’ flypast! Thank you to Dave Parker and his team at Heritage Mahurangi for such a magnificent Armistice Day occasion.

This is an example of the local significance that national issues invariably have in each area. Here we have much to remember – lest we forget the lessons that history can teach – and I’m humbly delighted that I will have a chance to uphold and augment such local efforts as the relevant Minister.

On a much lighter ceremonial note, I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming Warkworth Santa Parade. This comes with huge thanks to Murray Chapman and One Mahurangi Business Association for arranging the event, along with all the local legends who have volunteered to support making it happen.