Labour MP Rachel Boyack has officially launched her campaign to retain the Nelson electorate at the 2026 General Election, making the cost of living, healthcare and jobs the centrepieces of her re-election pitch.
Speaking at her campaign launch, Rachel reflected on both personal and political challenges, including the miscarriage she and partner Scott experienced earlier this year.
She thanked the Nelson community for its support during a difficult time, saying the compassion shown to them highlighted the importance of talking openly about miscarriage and baby loss.
Rachel also paid tribute to campaign volunteers, saying election campaigns rely on thousands of acts of generosity from supporters willing to donate time, money and energy.
Seeking a third term as Nelson MP, Rachel highlighted what she described as key achievements during her time in Parliament, including securing the commitment and initial funding for a rebuild of Nelson Hospital, delivering more public and social housing, expanding public transport and backing economic development projects.
However, she said the rising cost of living is now the biggest issue facing many Nelson families.
Rachel pointed to job losses at Sealord, Carter Holt Harvey and Proper Crisps as evidence of growing economic pressure in the region.
"This election is about the cost of living, and we cannot afford three more years of National," she says.
Among Labour's proposed policies, Rachel promoted plans to tackle supermarket competition, freeze fuel tax increases for three years, cap public transport fares in Nelson at $10 a week and support households to install solar energy systems.
Healthcare was another major focus of her speech. Rachel pledged Labour would deliver a full Nelson Hospital rebuild, invest in frontline staffing and guarantee jobs for eligible New Zealand-trained graduate nurses.
She also highlighted Labour's proposed Medicard scheme, which would include free GP visits, prescriptions, maternity scans and cervical screening.
Housing and economic development featured strongly, with Rachel renewing support for developing the vacant Kāinga Ora site on Examiner Street and promoting opportunities in the region's growing blue economy sector.
Rachel urged supporters to help drive a grassroots campaign, saying every conversation and every vote would matter in what she expects to be a closely fought contest.
Rachel retained her position as Nelson MP in the 2023 election by just 26 votes.
"Our task is ambitious, but it is achievable: keep Nelson red, change the government, and build a fairer future for everyone," she says.
