The Neighbourhood Support 2004 National Conference, It's your future - make it safe, was opened in Palmerston North on Saturday 9 October by the Hon Steve Maharey, Member of Parliament for Palmerston North and Minister for Social Development.

After opening remarks honouring the memory and contributions to Neighbourhood Support of Shirley Heaphy and former Police Chief Inspector Dave Smith, the Minister said the government shared Neighbourhood Support's commitment to building communities that are safe, strong, caring, and connected. He spoke of communities empowered to drive their own development and find their own solutions, and the government's commitment to building communities where people support each other, keep an eye out for each other, and give each other a helping hand. The Minister also outlined some of the history and current initiatives of Neighbourhood Support. Click here to read the full speech.