The Labour Party of Kirk believed creating a level playing field was the State's first responsibility and the basic measure of a decent society. In the years since, we've been shamed into thinking that ideal is in some way naive or even presumptuous, that equity and justice are dreams we can't afford, that a level playing field is just too much uphill work. Whangārei is over feeling ashamed. Because we are not naive. It is not naive to think a country can be run on the basis of equal opportunity and fairness. It is not naive to think it is worth shouldering responsibility for uplifting the vulnerable. It is not naive to expect that the interests of the people should be at the heart of their Government. And the truth of that was amply demonstrated by the last Labour-led Government, which spent 2020 proving over and over that putting its people first is the best and smartest way to protect a country. It is the ethos that helped build this country. It is what has sustained us through the last dark months. It is the kaupapa that can see us thrive into the future. That is the dream I am here to help secure. That is the job I am here to help get done. With help, Whangārei can achieve our dreams. And, what's more, we know achieving them will help this country achieve its goals, including, for example, an improved coastal shipping and rail network utilising the best and deepest port in New Zealand.