Motions — Silver Ferns—2015 Netball World Cup

I seek leave to move a motion without notice and without debate to congratulate the Silver Ferns on their performance at the Netball World Cup.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: Is there any objection to that course of action? There is none.

I move, That this House note the achievements of our national netball team, the Silver Ferns, who delighted us all during the World Cup, most notably in the victory over the Australian Diamonds during the preliminary round, and put on record how proud the country is of the way the team fought back during Sunday’s final, after a very difficult first quarter, to finish within three goals of Australia; and congratulate the New Zealand Parliamentary Netball Team on their victory over the Australians in the Diggeress Cup. They are fine representatives of New Zealand, both on and off the court.

On behalf of—

💬 Mr SPEAKER: Order! It is a motion without debate, so if the member seeks leave, I am sure—

Can I seek leave to reply—

💬 Mr SPEAKER: That would be the best way forward. Leave is sought for the Hon Trevor Mallard to briefly respond. Is there any objection? There is not.

Can I add the Opposition’s congratulations to the team, in particular to the coach, Wai Taumāunu, who took a high proportion of untested players; and to Casey Kōpua, who recovered from what we thought was a career-ending injury to lead the team. I think that many New Zealanders felt despair after the first quarter, and some hope, if not expectation, later on. This is a team for the future, and I think we are well placed for the next Netball World Cup.

Motion agreed to.