Economy’s health will get us through

Matariki a time to reflect on challenges and progress

Like many of you here in the O¯ taki Electorate, I enjoyed New Zealand’s first Matariki public holiday with family and friends, celebrating the Ma¯ ori New Year and reflecting on the year that’s been.

It’s been busy and I’m proud of the progress our Government has continued to make on the long-standing issues facing New Zealand — from housing to climate change, inequality and more. We’ve also stepped up to meet new challenges head-on, and, as a result, the fundamentals of our economy are strong.

We have a record low unemployment rate, economic activity that is higher than it was before Covid, and debt lower than most countries we compare ourselves with. Food and fibre export revenue is expected reach a record $52.2 billion in the year to June 30, and international tourists are again boosting our region’s economy.

But we know that, despite the positive indicators, many families are finding things tough. To help with this, we’ve delivered a cost of living package to further ease the pressure on New Zealanders in the face of global inflation.

This package includes a new temporary cost of living payment, which will benefit more than two million people earning up to $70,000, including many here in Horowhenua.

Alongside this payment, we are tackling transport costs by extending our fuel tax cut, reduced road user charges, and half-price public transport for a further two months, and making half-price public transport permanent for community service card holders.

We’re also taking action on supermarkets to make sure Kiwis are paying a fair price at the checkout.

These measures build on the steps we’ve already taken to reduce cost pressures on New Zealanders, such as our Winter Energy Payment, cheaper doctor’s visits, and our April 1 changes which included a boost to superannuation.

The strength of our economy means that not only are we able to provide further support for people here in Horowhenua right now, we’re also able to keep a lid on debt, and continue investing to secure our future. We’re making sure New Zealanders can access world class healthcare, growing a skilled workforce, accelerating our transition to a low emissions economy, and more.

Together, we’ve navigated Covid and the challenges of the past few years better than almost any other country. We did that by pulling together and having a plan that puts people first.

We’re striking a careful balance, supporting people while ensuring we’re ready for whatever lies ahead.