The small town of Panguru, in Northland's Hokianga, is one of the most remote and deprived communities in New Zealand with infrastructure so bad, it’s having a negative effect on the community.
But a visit from some MPs today has brought hope.
In Panguru, the median income is less than $20,000 a year and unemployment is at more than 16 per cent, compared to a national average of four per cent.
The roads are in such poor condition businesses and schools are badly affected.
Some children miss up to five weeks of school a year because heavy rain can wash out roads for days.
Today Government Ministers brought promises of internet connectivity, forestry opportunities, and a new sea wall, offering hope to this hard-done-by community.
"When you come to these isolated places, its incredibly important that people feel they can still live here, bring their kids up here," says Regional Development Minister, Shane Jones.
Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters agrees, saying, "It's tremendous, I was here a long time ago and it's great to see it's still thriving, but of course it needs some serious help."
The visit was well-received by the Panguru community and they were happy to hear the promises, but are just hoping they will be delivered.
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