Greg O’Connor MP for Ōhāriu, Column for Tawa News
Recent proposed changes to the electoral boundaries make considerable sense, especially for Tawa.
Previously, the northern boundary of the Ōhāriu electorate was McLellan Street, just north of the Tawa pool. Now, the whole of Tawa will be incorporated into the new Kenepuru seat, which stretches from the Malvina Major Retirement Village in Johnsonville through to the Paremata inlet. This means all Tawa issues will be able to be dealt with by one MP, rather than crossing boundaries.
These changes also mean the old Ōhāriu electorate will disappear. The Wellington Central district will now cover the area from Broadmeadows south, including Khandallah and Karori.
For me personally, this means I will be the last MP for Ōhāriu. My future political career is uncertain. However, I continue to serve as the Member of Parliament until the next election, which is likely to be held in late 2026.
Tawa certainly has its own unique issues, being a defined area. I’ve always enjoyed the fact that many of the same individuals are involved in various community groups across the borough. I don’t anticipate that the proposed changes will make a material difference to local residents.
It’s a very satisfying and enjoyable area to represent—especially for someone like myself who has previously policed and played sport in the area.
