Late last year New Zealand Post announced it will relocate its Kiwibank and bill payment services from the Princess Street PostShop in Takanini to the Southgate PostCentre.

I'm aware this significant reduction in services will inconvenience a number of residents, particularly those without easy access to the proposed Southgate location.

Counties-Manukau is the fastest growing district in the country - particularly with the projected development of the region's residential and industrial areas.

Takanini's population alone is anticipated to grow to almost 20,000 by 2031.

The good people of Takanini deserve reasonable access to a post outlet with a complete range of facilities.

The Kiwibank facility at Princess Street has an established customer base and remains a reliable and efficient retailer.

I share residents' concern about the reduction of PostShop services in this thriving community.

It made me extremely proud to open the Takanini District Police Station in December last year.

What struck me at the opening was the incredible level of support from the local people - Takanini residents have a genuine interest in promoting neighbourhood safety.

Similarly, the local people are genuinely concerned about the future of their Princess Street PostShop.

If residents want to support the Princess Street PostShop and its Kiwibank and bill payment services they can sign a petition at the Princess Street PostShop.

In the meantime, I am writing to the Chief Executives of both Kiwibank and New Zealand Post on behalf of Takanini residents.