In this series of interviews in the lead up to the general election on 17 October, The Central App gives you the opportunity to learn more about your election candidates with a simple Q&A. 

The Central App sent out a questionnaire to all electorate candidates in both the Southland and Waitaki electorates, to give them the opportunity to introduce themselves to you in their own words. 

Central Otago is divided and represented by both Southland and Waitaki electorates. 

Today, The Central App put the questions to ONE Party Southland Candidate Judith Terrill.

Name: Judith Terrill

Party: ONE Party

Electorate: Southland

Where do you live: “I was born in Winton. brought up on a farm at Ryal Bush and now live in Invercargill.”

Tell us why you are standing for your party:

“I am standing for the ONE Party as their values respect the sanctity of life from the cradle to the grave. There is an honouring of the Tangata Whenua, elderly, people with disabilities.”

Tell us a bit about yourself:

“Current job: Pastor

“Background: My background has been working with people as a chaplain, foster parent, social worker, prison work

“Interests: I am always interested in finding out ways to improve people's lives. To see them excel to their best potential. I swim, do craft, read and restore cars for relaxation.”

What are the key issues you see facing this electorate? 

1. A need to get ourselves back on our feet again through creating hope for the future through economic strategy. New Zealands debt is escalating and without immediate intervention will cause serious long term problems. We must put in measures to reduce debt, increase employment through growing business, and improve fiscal transparency.
2. I believe this electorate is rich with potential from it's primary industries to it's technology. The 'can do' attitude of the people of the Southland electorate is a source of untapped potential.
3. The family unit is close to my heart. They need to be supported well when they need help. That single parents from broken relationships get the support they need.”

If elected, how do you intend to keep up to date on local issues and close to the needs of the people in your electorate?

“I want to live and work with the people in the Southland electorate. To listen to the people and express their concerns to government in a way that gets some action on their behalf.”

What do you see as the key policies of your party that will make the biggest impact for the people in your electorate?

“That people will be heard. We are a Party who believes in the voice of the people and the need to have someone to advocate for them around their local issues. To realise they have and know the answers to the problems they face just to live a life of healthy wellbeing.”

What is your stance on energy security of Central Otago?

“Let the people decide who live here not politicians pushing their own agendas influenced by those who know nothing about the local energy security.”

What are your thoughts on water quality in Central Otago? 

“Of course, ONE Party will rigorously pursue clean food, pure water, clean air, and clean environment and sustainable secure energy resources.”

Do you think it has any advantages/disadvantages that Central Otago is now going to be represented by two different MPs? What about if they end up being from two different parties?

“I am willing to work with any MP from another Party to bring about unity of issues concerning the wants and needs of the people for the betterment of the region. I believe we can make it work without having political agendas.”

What skills and attributes do you have which make you believe you will be a good MP?

“Firstly, I have no skeletons in the closet. I am here for the people and their wellbeing. I'm a good listener. I've spent many years advocating successfully for people who have been put in a position where they have not been able to speak for themselves. I've had plenty of common-sense life experiences 'on the ground' to have solutions to everyday situations that people find themselves in. I'm approachable. I have high moral standards. A healthy 43-year-old marriage. Good speaking and communication skills. I believe in honesty and transparency.”

If you are standing for Southland, you have gained a whole bunch of new-to-your electorate voters, some of whom are concerned their voices will no longer be heard given they are now part of an electorate which also has Queenstown. What message do you have for them?

“My top priority is that every voice is heard no matter what town you live in or what status in society you are from. Everyone deserves to be heard and I will do my utmost to act on their concerns.”

Where do you stand on the Cannabis Legalisation and Control Referendum?

“ONE Party believe that drug use is not a criminal issue but a health issue. History has shown that drug convictions do not reduce drug use. We support rehabilitation and reintegration and support initiatives that work on treatment rather than enforcement.”

And the End of Life Choice Referendum?

“ONE Party believes in the value of life, and that every life has value therefore oppose any form that devalues life, and for this reason we reject and oppose all forms of Euthanasia.”

Anything else you’d like to add?

“...I'd be highly honoured and privileged to serve the Southland Electorate constituents in Parliament from October 17th 2020.”

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