Nelson has said "yes" to increasing the drinking age to 20, "no" to leading the world on climate change, while a majority want a study into the merger of Nelson and Tasman councils, Nelson MP Nick Smith says.

Dr Smith today released the results of his annual survey that was conducted via newsletter and online in November and December last year.

"There is majority support for a study on the merits of merging Tasman and Nelson councils with 56% in favour. This result confirms my long-held view that our region and ratepayers would benefit from a comprehensive study. The result is not overwhelming thus my view that any decision to merge should be determined by referendum after the results of a study are known.   

"In Nelson there is real concern about the issue of alcohol law reform with only 10% of respondents supporting the current legal drinking age of 18.  64% of respondents want the drinking age lifted to 20 while 26% support 18 year-olds being able to drink in licensed premises but need to be aged 20 to purchase alcohol from an off-license.

"Minister for Transport Steven Joyce has said young drivers are seriously over-represented in crash statistics and Nelsonians have made it clear they support an increase in the driving age with 66% wanting the age raised from 15 to 17.

"As Minister for ACC I have the task of turning around a scheme which suffered a loss of $4.8 billion last year. It has meant a difficult balance of minimising the cost increases on families and businesses, keeping the pressure on ACC to better manage its costs, and ensuring ACC's long-term financial viability.

"Results from the Nelson survey show that 62% back the Government’s approach of both raising levies and cutting costs and entitlements rather than just doing one or the other. 

 "On the issue of climate change only 8% say New Zealand should lead the world in emissions reductions. This result backs the Government’s approach of New Zealand taking a considered approach and doings its fair share and not trying to be way out in front of the rest of the world.

"The survey was responded to by 614 households and is invaluable in helping me keep in touch with Nelsonians and the issues that are important to them."