Janice Lee (Ngāi Tahu, Kāti Mamoe, Waitaha, Ngāti Porou) is a community leader and businesswoman who is focussed on empowered living for vulnerable people (neuro-diverse youth and vulnerable elders), food sovereignty, housing and business development.

"I'm proud of my track record of turning vision into action. I want to use my experience to be an effective and dynamic Member of Parliament for Invercargill.

"My work has shown me what’s possible when people work together with a shared sense of purpose. I'll campaign on my values of equity, opportunity and social responsibility.

"I'm the Pouārahi (Founder) of Koha Kai, an award-winning social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through vocational training. Koha Kai has always upheld the values of fairness, inclusion and manaakitanga, fostering opportunities for whānau to thrive through contextual learning, inclusive employment, and a sense of purpose.

"I'm also an original member of the Murihiku Kai Collective, a member of the Invercargill Chamber of Commerce and I have served on several boards including KUMA, the Southern Māori Business Network Association.

"As Chair of Te Kāwai Trust, I've been leading the development of accessible, environmentally sustainable housing for Kaumātua and Tāngata Whaikaha. This is so exciting because it reflects my long-standing commitment to equitable, community-led solutions. I believe everyone wants to contribute and to have dignity, so I create opportunities for that to happen.

Janice has been recognised nationally and regionally for her contributions to social enterprise, Māori business development and disability advocacy.

Janice has lived in Waihopai Invercargill for most of her life. She and her husband Terry have four children and nine mokopuna.