Tēnā koutou katoa. My name is Ben Wylie-van Eerd, and I'm a scientist with experience doing research and development for innovative companies both overseas and in New Zealand. I became interested in politics during my university education when I realised that a great many of the problems facing the human race sat outside of the realm of science. We have every bit of technological know-how in the present day to feed, clothe, house and educate every single person in this country. But still people are hungry, cold, living in cars and dying prematurely. I think it's obvious to a lot of people that we are doing something wrong.
I am passionate about the issues facing young people and the effect this has on our mental health, especially the cost of housing and the challenge of climate change. The Opportunities Party has impressed me with their comprehensive solutions put forward to solve these issues and give young people a stake in the future. The price of accommodation can be brought down, our carbon emissions can be reduced. We can increase the value that we produce and trade for as a nation. It takes courage to make that change, and I will bring that courage to Parliament, if elected.
In my spare time, I enjoy the bird life in the beautiful Belmont regional park, play board games, and practice taekwon-do to stay fit.