Billie Votes: National’s Nicola Grigg.
With the 2023 Election less than a week away, the time to decide who to vote for has come.
If you are still on the fence, check out our Billie Votes profiles on the young women running for parliament.
Name: Nicola Grigg
Age: 42
Political Party: The National Party
Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved in politics?
My own involvement with politics began when I was the Press Secretary for Sir Bill English during his tenure as Finance Minister and then Prime Minister. I was elected as the Member of Parliament for Selwyn in the 2020 election. My motivation in politics is to continue to grow the representation and the voice of our rural communities and women, accordingly, I am the National Party’s spokesperson for these portfolios.
What do you think drew you to a career as a politician?
My great-grandmother became the National Party’s first female MP in 1942, following the death of her husband, who was the sitting MP for mid-Canterbury, where I also grew up. I have known of their achievements my whole life and have been influenced by them.
Tell us about your political party? Why did you choose to stand for them?
Our party is founded on values that resonate with me – particularly; equal opportunity, individual freedom, personal responsibility, limited government, competitive enterprise and reward for achievement.
In your opinion, what are the biggest issues facing New Zealand today?
We believe the failing economy is the biggest issue impacting New Zealanders. Without a strong and robust economy, we lack the ability to invest in the public services which we all depend on. We also believe New Zealand needs a change in perspective and to feel positive about our future, which we are inspired by and feel excited for.
What are the biggest issues facing the youth of New Zealand?
Our concerns relate to education, health, law and order and the cost of living crisis. The wonderful youth of New Zealand deserve to have a state system that fills them with hope and aspiration.
Getting young people involved in politics and voting has long been an issue - why do you think it is important for young people to not only vote but educate themselves about who and what they are voting for?
Voting is one of the most crucial aspects of a liberal democracy and it is essential for true and proper representation. I believe this can be supported through conversation. There are many resources that exist and that can be helpful for educational purposes, but by continuing the conversation amongst young people it can help to spark an interest, which is very important.
How would you sum up what your party stands for a young person?
The National Party stands on the firm principal that a strong education and a family/community support network is the foundation of a young person’s life. The National Party will always put forward policy to support young people.
What are the top three policies your party is focussing on this election?
Easing the cost of living crisis by rebuilding the economy, as well as improving the education and health systems to refer them back to 1st world status.
Have you got any policies that are focussed on youth issues? If so, what are they?
We have released policy in all three of these areas with a focus on doing the simple things excellently. This can be seen with our teaching the basics brilliantly policy (education), dealing with inflation policy (rebuilding the economy) and promoting the growth of our health sector by bolstering employment through our delivering more nurses and midwives and training more doctors policies. All of our policy released thus far is available on the National Party website.
Is there anything you, in particular, are campaigning for this election?
I am the National Party’s spokesperson for Women and hold several Agriculture portfolios which are my areas of experience and passion. I would love to see our young people gain a world-class education and have the foundations to explore opportunites that we believe should be available to all kiwis, no matter their background.
Do you have any plans in place to engage and involve young people in the political decision-making process?
I frequently pay visits to schools and tertiary education providers in my electorate (Selwyn) to engage with young people, understand their concerns and encourage engagement with political decisions.
Do you think the voting age should be lowered to 16? Why or why not?
At this stage, we do not believe the voting age should be lowered based on the evidence we have seen. We will always endeavour to take an evidence-based approach and where necessary, engage in a referendum for issues that involve a constitutional change (such as adjusting the voting age).
Why should those under the age of 18 still take an interest in politics?
We always encourage people, including those under 18 years of age, to take an interest in politics so that they can be better informed when voting or engaging with politics generally. We believe education facilitates engagement and interest.
How will you ensure that the voices of young voters are heard and represented in government?
I like to take a grass-roots approach to policy, which means considering the opinions and objectives of people on the ground who are affected by decisions, including young people. Often, young people vocalising their concerns can lead to legislative change and that is something supported by the National Party.
Can you describe your vision for the country's future?
I want New Zealand to be the best country in the world to live, work and raise a family - and I believe we have to potential to achieve this.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind in terms of empowering the youth and strengthening democracy?
I would hope that I can set an example to young people that your life experience and connection to others can set a strong foundation for parliamentary advocacy.
All major New Zealand political parties were invited to take part in this interview series. Those not represented chose not to respond.
