I was given some great news on Friday morning that Transport Minister Chris Bishop had agreed to fund the two intersections either side of the Waiōtahe River Bridge on State Highway 2.

This along with changes at the Matekerepu intersection are projects that have been lobbied for spanning three mayors, both here in Ōpōtiki and in Whakatāne. We have also had the support of Kawerau Mayor Faylene Tunui and of course former Kawerau Mayor, now Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor, Malcom Campbell.

The big two projects on SH2 / Wainui Road plus several projects underway along SH35 at Tōrere and Ōpape are making a difference and keeping our roads safer and more resilient in the Eastern Bay.

These projects are greatly welcomed by Ōpōtiki residents but also benefit our neighbouring councils and Tairāwhiti because much of the heavy traffic passing through our district is on its way to the Port of Tauranga or further afield.

Both Whakatāne Mayor Victor Luca and Mrs Tunui have provided great support and advice over the last two and a half years in forums such as the regional transport committee and it is a reminder of how important the relationship is between the Eastern Bay towns.

Dr Luca gave a very good presentation on the need for a second bridge in Whakatāne, and repairs desperately needed for the Pekatahi Bridge. I support that kaupapa and also the presentation by Whakatāne councillor Gavin Dennis on the challenges for residents of Matatā and ongoing issues at Moore's Bridge.

We try to carpool to meetings and events around the country as it is great opportunity to share ideas and issues so we can work cohesively. The road trips work well, although one mayor complains about my driving, and the other complains that my vehicle isn't electric.

But it is well worth it to try and align and support each other’s districts in our work and with central Government. Given the volumes of exports that come from each of our districts, it is important that we speak clearly and loudly and make sure we get heard by central government. Especially given the potential for a big increase in our contribution to GDP in the coming years.