Simon Bridges National MP simonbridges.co.nz

So many positive things are going on here in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty. Last week I was able to meet with representatives from both Kiwi Produce Ltd and Zespri, companies at the top of their game.

The horticulture industry in the Bay of Plenty is doing so well and is a driving force for our local economy. It is reassuring to see there are so many dedicated and innovative people working hard to push our horticulture sector forward.

Our hardworking growers have had their dedication rewarded by great results for the most recent season. In the 2015/2016 period 129 million trays were sold and predictions see this rising to 182 million trays by 2020.

These results and the future forecasts are fantastic for our local economy and show the importance of perseverance and innovation.

I wish all our growers and producers every success.

Recently, I also met with student leaders at Tauranga Boys' College to talk about the future.

I enjoy meeting with our students because they often see the world differently and they offer a fresh perspective on things.

The students had great questions about where I see Tauranga heading and it was good to see their enthusiasm for what is ahead.

Most of them see a great future for themselves in Tauranga, which hasn't always been the case. Their continued focus to their education and their passion for our community is inspiring and I have no doubt that I will see more of them in the future.