Ormiston, South Auckland – A diverse group of business owners, community leaders, and local government representatives gathered at St Paul’s in the Park on Thursday evening. The community came together to hear Labour Finance Spokesperson and senior MP Hon. Barbara Edmonds, who shared her vision on the economic challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand.
Hosted by Edmonds, the event attracted attendees from across the region, highlighting widespread interest in shaping the country’s economic future.
The evening was MC’d by Dr. Anae Neru Leavasa, PHO Clinical Director and former Takanini MP, who welcomed guests and guided discussions throughout the programme. Local government representatives joined business leaders across sectors, highlighting a shared commitment to community engagement and collaboration.
Photo: Supplied
Two business figures opened the evening with reflections on the current economic landscape.
Kharag Singh JP, a long-standing grass-root community leader, business owner, and a past Labour MP candidate of the Botany electorate, spoke about the resilience of small businesses and the importance of policies that support their sustainability. Ricky Bathla, a freight and logistics entrepreneur, highlighted the pressures on supply chains and the need for adaptive leadership to keep New Zealand competitive in an increasingly challenging global market.
Photo: Supplied
Edmonds Calls for Inclusive Economic Policy
In her keynote, Barbara Edmonds outlined Labour’s vision for an economy aimed at benefiting a broad spectrum of New Zealanders. She addressed the cost-of-living pressures faced by many households, including rising bills, increasing food prices, and concerns over unemployment.
Edmonds detailed Labour’s proposed policy priorities, which included reducing power bills, making primary healthcare more accessible, supporting local businesses and job creation, and easing housing pressures for first-home buyers and renters. She also criticised the current government’s economic management, citing indicators such as rising company liquidations and increasing hardship withdrawals from KiwiSaver accounts.
Photo: Supplied
Community Collaboration at the Forefront
Despite the policy-focused discussions, much of the evening emphasised dialogue and collaboration. Attendees shared perspectives across sectors, seeking common ground to address local and national economic challenges.
Dr. Leavasa reflected on the event’s atmosphere:
“The energy in the room reflected the strength of our community. Bringing together leaders from different sectors encourages practical solutions and collective action for a stronger future.”
As conversations continued beyond the formal programme, the event achieved its goal of fostering connection, dialogue, and reflection on the future of the local and national economy. Attendees left with a renewed sense of engagement and a focus on practical approaches to ensure that economic growth benefits a wide range of New Zealanders.
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