Jan Tinetti Labour MP

A huge bouquet this week to a local supermarket employee who helped an elderly lady with her groceries and also to the man who observed this very kind act and took the time to post a thank you to him on the Mt Maunganui Noticeboard Facebook page.

He wrote that judging by the huge smile on the man's face, he enjoyed giving as much as the elderly lady enjoyed receiving help.

And Tauranga's own Gemma McCaw wrote this week: 'Have you ever received a random act of kindness that completely brightened up your day? If we showed more thoughtfulness, the world would be a happier place.

'Your act of kindness can create a ripple effect and spread happiness to everyone who witnessed it.”

PM Jacinda Ardern has said she wants the new government to 'feel different”, to be 'empathetic and kind”.

Tauranga is growing at a fast rate and as it does, I would ask that you spare a thought for our elderly residents - some of whom have lived in Tauranga since it was a relatively small town.

They are now having to contend with very busy roads, shopping malls, supermarkets and footpaths.

Recent reports highlighted the fact that many are also suffering from loneliness and finding it difficult to make ends meet.

The recent report commissioned by Housing Minister Phil Twyford also identified 'the hidden homeless”.

Our senior citizens deserve better.

Locally we have many wonderful organisations which can help, and I would urge our seniors to reach out to them.