Support vital in challenging times
Government’s actions have brought relief to many
As we head towards what’s promising to be a bumper summer here in the Otaki ¯ electorate, I can’t help reflecting on the past year.
It’s been a busy one for the Government as we’ve continued to support New Zealanders through a challenging period while making progress on some of the biggest issues facing our community.
Thanks to our careful management of the books, our economy is in a strong position — and faring better than many other countries.
However, we know global issues such as rising inflation have had a real impact here at home, and many people are feeling the pinch.
That’s why, to help ease the pressure on families, we’ve rolled out a significant package of cost of living support.
With the war in Ukraine driving up petrol and diesel prices, we cut fuel tax and reduced road user charges, as well as halving public transport fares.
We also provided extra support to help people with their bills through the cost of living payment and the winter energy payment.
Alongside measures to provide immediate relief, we’ve continued our work to lift incomes and reduce cost pressures over the long term.
In April, we boosted superannuation, student allowances, the family tax credit and main benefits, providing extra income for thousands of households.
To ensure New Zealanders pay a fairer price at the checkout, we’ve progressed work to hold supermarkets to account, we also announced changes that will make childcare more affordable for
the majority of working families.
We know things are still tough for many here in the O¯ taki electorate, but together, initiatives like these will help to ease the pressure and make life a little easier.
Over the past year, we’ve also continued our work on housing.
Through our Housing Acceleration Fund, we’ve invested in the vital infrastructure like roads and pipes needed to get housing developments built faster. This includes an investment in the O¯ taki electorate that will unlock around $29.3 million for 1040 homes.
We’ve also boosted support for first home buyers and launched an affordable housing fund, helping more families into their own place.
It will take time to turn around New Zealand’s housing crisis, but the changes we’ve made are already making a big difference.
With summer almost here,
the return of international tourists has been welcome for local businesses, and I know many here in the O¯ taki electorate are gearing up for a busy season.
To ensure businesses can get the workers they need for the summer and beyond, our Government has streamlined immigration settings and expanded places for working holidaymakers, as well as continuing to upskill Kiwis for jobs.
We’ve now supported 20,000 people into jobs through Flexi-wage, and more than 200,000 people through free apprenticeships and trades training.
These are just some of the things we’ve achieved this year. There’s a lot on the horizon for next year, and I’m looking forward to continuing to work hard to support the O¯ taki electorate.
For now though, I wish you and your loved ones a very merry Christmas and a fantastic summer.