The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is currently consulting on proposed changes to minimum obligations for New Zealand Post's mail service under its deed of understanding with the Government.
Rural Women NZ CEO Marie Fitzpatrick explains the plan to reduce mail deliveries from five to three days a week and slash postal outlets from 880 to 500 could hit rural communities hardest, especially vulnerable groups.
She also touches on the broader need for robust rural infrastructure, including internet access and childcare, to sustain local economies.
To counter these proposals, Fitzpatrick is advocating for a "rural proofing framework" to ensure fair access to essential services and a reevaluation of what constitutes a rural area.
Listen to the full chat between Marie Fitzpatrick and Dominic George above.
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