We face persistent social justice challenges and more seriously, climate induced crises. My heritage compels me to speak up when something is clearly wrong, such as it is now. My practical social work and activism in relation to French Nuclear Testing, the Vietnam War, the 1981 Springbok Tour and recently in Extinction Rebellion support this.

We need a strong Green presence in government to ensure we deal with Climate Action on a crisis footing. The effort we have mounted against Covid19 demonstrates this is possible.

I have recent experiences as an activist on Climate Action and as a Budget Service financial mentor in relation to Equality. Social justice is a particular passion of mine ever since I can remember. In 2017, touring NZ for a year on motorcycles Lynne and I saw up close the horrifying degradation of our previously Healthy Nature and both entrenched poverty and the concentration of wealth. This experience strongly informs my political commitment.

To give you an idea of my philosophy I am a strong proponent of a Citizens Assembly on Climate and Ecological Justice, Wealth Tax and a Guaranteed Minimum Income. Voters may be anxious about the climate crisis but are immobilised through fear, apathy or self interest. “Party Vote Green” is my suggestion and if a voter is having difficulty with that call I suggest they just ask their children or grandchildren what they think about Climate Justice. The interests of the present generation do not automatically come first.

I am 3 years retired but was involved in financial services for nearly 50 years in advisory, sales, sales management, marketing and administration functions. I was one of the early participants in development of financial planning as a profession in New Zealand. I am Institute of Directors trained and held Board positions with Long and
Associates Ltd, Victoria Custodians, Goldridge Ltd and Horowhenua Supergrans.

I hold a Diploma of Business Studies (Personal Financial Planning) and a N.Z. Diploma in Life Assurance. I was granted Certified Financial Planner
status in 1998, an international designation. Until relinquished on retirement in 2016 I was an Authorised Financial Adviser.

I have been married to Lynne for 49 years. We have 2 daughters and 5 grandchildren.

You can get in touch with Bernard at [email protected]