Rachel lives in Nelson with her husband Scott, and before entering Parliament worked as a Health and Safety Coordinator for the Anglican Diocese of Nelson. In her previous role as an Organiser with FIRST Union, she negotiated collective employment agreements with large companies like Nelson Pine, lifting wages for hundreds of workers in the Nelson region.
Rachel previously volunteered on the Boards of Nelson Women’s and Children’s Refuge and the Nelson Environment Centre. She was the Chair of Labour’s Policy Council leading up to the election. A trained singer, she has a Music Degree from the University of Auckland and was a member of the New Zealand Youth Choir. She also enjoys spending time at Tahunanui beach with Scott and their Labrador, Phoebe.
Rachel is passionate about ensuring all Kiwis have the opportunity to be the best they can be. She knows it starts with dignity at work; affordable, warm homes; quality education and a responsive, accessible health system. She knows working people need the security of knowing there will be a pension there for them, at an age they can still enjoy it.
Rachel loves Nelson’s fantastic natural environment, outstanding creative industries and unrivalled community spirit. Rachel is honoured to have been elected as the MP for Nelson, and looks forward to working hard in Parliament in 2020.
Rachel’s priorities for Nelson are:
- Affordable housing for first-home buyers and families,
- Working to end “Sunshine Wages” in the region,
- Improving Mental Health services,
- Better public transport,
- Preserving our environment; and
- Working closely with our two Councils to address Climate Change.