The country’s books are in remarkably good shape

Written By: - Date published: 8:44 am, December 16th, 2021 - 79 comments
Categories: Budget 2021, Economy, grant robertson, national, same old national, treasury - Tags:

The traditional mantra that the right are better economic managers than the left is in tatters following the latest half yearly Economic and Fiscal Update.  As noted yesterday by Grant Robertson in Parliament:

While Treasury is forecasting a decline in GDP in the September quarter, due to the Delta outbreak, it predicts a bounce-back in the December quarter of 3.7 percent, and annual growth is forecast to average about 3 percent a year from 2023 to 2026. Unemployment is forecast to fall further, to 3.1 percent in the March quarter next year, while wages are forecast to grow 4.4 percent a year, on average, across the forecast period. The strength of the New Zealand economy means that the books will be back in surplus earlier than expected in 2023-2024; net debt will peak at 40.1 percent of GDP, lower than the 48 percent that was forecast at the Budget; and core Crown expenses will drop from their current level of 35.3 percent to 30.5 percent next year, and track at a similar level across the forecast period.

The associated Budget Policy statement also released yesterday indicates that the Government is getting ready to spend big.  As noted by Richard Harman the Budget Operating Allowance, essentially money for new spending, has increased from $2.6 billion to $6 billion for next year.  This gives the Government plenty of headroom for climate change initiative spending.

There is a real argument about how much the Government should be doing to alleviate poverty and the threats to our environment.  But no one can accuse the Government of being reckless with the economy.  And the orchestrated tales of woe from sectors of the business community do not appear to reflect reality with tax collected exceeding forecasts and a predicted deficit of $15.1 billion is now a much more modest $4.6 billion.

There can be no argument that Robertson is a careful and competent manager of the country’s finances.

79 comments on “The country’s books are in remarkably good shape ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Enough is Enough 1
    16 December 2021 at 9:08 am

    I'm sorry, an economy funded by Fonterra, hyper-inflation in the housing market, and quantitative easing is not in good shape and certainly not sustainable.

    The rich are doing better now then they ever have. The rest are hurting badly.

    From an accountant’s perpsective the books might be in good shape. But that’s the type of thing only a National government should be proud of if there is still widespread poverty in society – as there is.

    • Nic the NZer 1.1
      16 December 2021 at 10:12 am

      As a result of the QE policy the government owes itself about 30% of its total debt and pays lower interest rates on that (partly to itself) as well. Can you explain why this is a bad thing (and hurting people economically) for those of us for who its not obvious that this is a bad thing?

      • Enough is Enough 1.1.1
        16 December 2021 at 10:16 am

        Its a good thing from an accounting perspective – as I noted.

        But if the end result is the current society we have then who cares. It is National governments that are supposed to be proud of those sorts of things, while kids are hungry. Not Labour governments.

        • Nic the NZer 1.1.1.1
          16 December 2021 at 10:22 am

          Didn't follow. Kids are hungry because of QE? Surely they are hungry because they lack nutrition?

          • GreenBus 1.1.1.1.1
            16 December 2021 at 10:42 am

            Kids go hungry because of low wages.

          • Enough is Enough 1.1.1.1.2
            16 December 2021 at 10:42 am

            Bingo.

            So why would anyone be proud of the books when kids are hungry, and housing is out of reach for anyone who doesn't have a 200k deposit?

            • Nic the NZer 1.1.1.1.2.1
              16 December 2021 at 11:02 am

              But the question is how QE has contributed to that surely. Maybe it assisted with the governments finances and allowed them to engage in fiscal policy to address these things (within their own terms), but that was insufficient. So maybe its not a bad thing itself, but obviously doesn't address every ill of the economy by itself either.

              • Cricklewood …
                17 December 2021 at 6:06 am

                Essentially it lowered the cost of borrowing money, that and a relax of LVR ratios allowed large sums to be leveraged off existing and newly found equity to use housing as an investment vehicle. Once the sugar rush starts it becomes a pile on, Values increase, creating more equity which creates more headroom for more borrowing and the cycle continues. Money from thin air if you will…

                Banks of course are very happy with these scenarios as bigger mortgages equal bigger profits.

      • Blazer 1.1.2
        16 December 2021 at 11:01 am

        It's a bad thing when inflated housing costs and food costs mean Joe Lunchbox has hardly anything left over ,after paying the rapacious landlord most of his…wages.

        But GDP looks good,so all is…well.

      • DukeEll 1.1.3
        16 December 2021 at 5:25 pm

        Ah yes, the rationalisation of the situation by someone who owns their own house and quite possibly works in the bureaucratic sector.

        "there can't be any harm as price inflation through printing money has done to debt what hard work and savings normally would"

        • ghostwhowalksnz 1.1.3.1
          17 December 2021 at 1:37 pm

          price inflation isnt from printing money. Indeed other major countries have had QE for nearly a decade with hardly any (CPI) inflation. Yes asset prices of shares have rocketed up directly from that.

          NZ has only had QE for a little other a year , ending in July this year.

          You are only repeating an ACT party talking point.

          House prices have been climbing, in Auckland first then the rest of country since 2012.

  2. Blazer 2
    16 December 2021 at 9:19 am

    Treasury and banking commentators forecasts seem very unreliable….especially about house prices.

    The supposed drop due to covid became a huge ramping of over 25% in 1 year.

    • Blazer 3.1
      16 December 2021 at 9:38 am

      Glaringly obvious graphs…low mortgage rates=high house prices.

      Orr has worked it out now…or been told!

      • Nic the NZer 3.1.1
        16 December 2021 at 10:18 am

        I think its actually this graph you wanted regarding the high house prices,

        https://www.rbnz.govt.nz/statistics/key-graphs/key-graph-house-price-values

        But it doesn't seem obvious at all relating the two graphs together. The sharpest house price rises by percentage were around 2003 when interest rates were much higher and so were servicing costs. So if Orr is being told your model he may have found he has quite a lot of working out to do from there.

        • Blazer 3.1.1.1
          16 December 2021 at 10:53 am

          If I recall correctly ,Orr said it was not his…problem.

          So a 500k mortgage @8% equates to a million $ mortgage @4%.

          My understanding is there was a slump in prices 2000-2002 at least.

          You are cherry picking 2003,so no one would have confidence in your conclusion either.

          • Pat 3.1.1.1.1
            16 December 2021 at 11:03 am

            I believe the phrase Orr used was "first class problem"….or a good problem to have….it depends on your perspective.

          • Nic the NZer 3.1.1.1.2
            16 December 2021 at 11:05 am

            What started in 2003 (when I apparently cherry-picked it) continued until 2007/2008.

          • Craig H 3.1.1.1.3
            16 December 2021 at 9:48 pm

            House prices are only Orr's problem in how they impact the stability of the banking system, and potentially how they impact the prices of goods and services – asset prices including houses, are not part of Orr's remit.

    • Patricia Bremner 3.2
      16 December 2021 at 10:30 am

      Thank you Pat.

      When money supply is loose asset prices rise, as is happening in NZ Australia and the UK as well. People invest in houses as a "Stable" asset lol. Over and over until, as is happening now, auction figures indicate the "Market" has turned. The up side is money flow and higher tax take results in a shorter cycle. Most Governments also advantage first home buyers with schemes to aid with rising prices.

      A large shock is best dealt with by loosening money policy to meet the costs, this does cause inflation, but austerity causes massive retractions and the resulting lack of spend reverberates through the system for years because of lower tax takes. imo

      • Pat 3.2.1
        16 December 2021 at 10:48 am

        indeed…..the problem with viewing the statistics in aggregate is it fails to account for where the costs land….those who have (largely) increased the debt are not the same group required to service it (i.e rental properties).

        Added to that we have the effect of proportionality…or base effect…a 300 basis point rise in interest rates has a larger effect when rates are very low (as they have been).

        Our private debt levels are now at record highs (168% of GDP) even while the Gov have increased their level of debt on our behalf….hit from both sides.

        We have 'loosened' to the point of no return.

  4. woodart 4
    16 December 2021 at 9:34 am

    what a shambles; need a businessman at the helm; typical labour; moan whinge grizzle;..actually, its bloody amazing , and we should be looking forward to a third term for this VERY competent minister of finance…but whingeing is far easier …

    • Blazer 4.1
      16 December 2021 at 9:40 am

      Luxona won't put figures on anything.

      Robertson can handle him and Bridges together,with ease.

      They'll just beat the gangs/law and order drum…harder.

      • woodart 4.1.1
        16 December 2021 at 9:58 am

        yes blazer. think you have nailed it. if labour can get ahead of the typical nat go-to and throw $$$ at the police , it will make not-john look toothless.

        • Gezza 4.1.1.1
          16 December 2021 at 11:44 am

          Tru dat. Poto Williams has even managed to make remarks clearly in support of the police in some recent interviews & answers to Questions in the House. Now a bit more money thrown their way for extra police officers would stand her & Labour in good stead.

          Ordinary folk I talk to are pissed off about the growth in gang numbers, gang shootings, and cops getting shot at.

      • tc 4.1.2
        16 December 2021 at 2:53 pm

        Bring it on.

        A good opportunity for their 3 terms of police numbers and funding to get an airing.

        Great to see luxon kept JC on to help respond on that.

    • Patricia Bremner 4.2
      16 December 2021 at 10:31 am

      yesdevil

  5. Dennis Frank 5
    16 December 2021 at 9:49 am

    Beware the illusion factor though, as delineated by an ex-RB expert:

    to illustrate that inflation is a big part of the picture note that in this year’s Budget Treasury forecast that inflation for the year to June 2021 would be 2.4 per cent, for the year to June 2022 1.7 per cent, and for the year to June 2023 1.8 per cent. In the HYEFU, those numbers (2021 now known) are 3.3 per cent, 5.1 per cent, and 3.1 per cent. The total increase in the price level over those three years was expected to be 6.0 per cent, and is now expected to be 11.9 per cent.

    So of course the government needs to put more money (quite a lot more) in the operating allowance just to maintain real spending at the levels they intended only a few months ago. A lot of it is simply an inflation illusion.

    https://croakingcassandra.com/

    • Patricia Bremner 5.1
      16 December 2021 at 10:36 am

      Yes Dennis, But tell us about the reverse… Where assets lose value, businesses can't access loans, there is no money in the system and fire sales are an "Op shop" for the rich.

      • Blazer 5.1.1
        16 December 2021 at 10:55 am

        Heads we win,tails you lose has been neo liberal policy since…forever.

      • Dennis Frank 5.1.2
        16 December 2021 at 10:59 am

        surprise No way can I tell you more than you already know! I barely even managed to guess that you meant the reverse of inflation is deflation. We've never had that in Aotearoa to my knowledge – but I'm not an economic historian & am willing to be corrected if I'm wrong about that.

        • Blazer 5.1.2.1
          16 December 2021 at 11:06 am

          Not forgetting-Stagflation

          • 'Since the 1970s, rising price levels during periods of slow or negative economic growth have become somewhat of the norm rather than an exceptional situation.'
  6. Pat 6
    16 December 2021 at 11:11 am

    And GDP down 3.7% Sept quarter….

    https://www.interest.co.nz/business/113775/country-sees-second-largest-ever-quarterly-fall-gdp-result-shows-increasing

    GDP still below 2019 levels.

    From certain perspectives that may not be a bad thing, but when the entire system is predicated on 'growth' it is systemically challenging.

    • Tricledrown 6.1
      16 December 2021 at 11:33 am

      Pat cherry picking season in full flight when you read through the full story it says growth was up 2.1% annually.

      The main reason for a decline in GDP was the shut down in the tourism sector.

      The predicted Decline in gdp was supposed to be more than double at -7.4% but came in at only 3.7 % the economy grew at 2.1 % for the year.

      Much better than all the dooms sellers .

      Given Tourism was our largest single earner before the Pandemic our economy is doing much better than anyone expected.

      So all the attack lines by the bald faced liar and simple Simon are backfiring.

      • Pat 6.1.1
        16 December 2021 at 11:37 am

        Cherry picking?…..is the economy larger or smaller than it was in 2019?

        And highlighting Treasury's appalling projection record isnt a positive.

        We are more indebted than ever, in a shrinking economy with rising global interest rates….and thats supposed to be positive?….well excuse me.

    • Ad 6.2
      16 December 2021 at 11:33 am

      A challenge we are meeting easily.

      It's not the growth: the thing to watch is the quality of the growth.

      The sectors that have lost growth are in areas like: restaurants and travel; retail; accommodation and anything to do with tourism; and export education.

      The sectors that had temporary hits but long term booms are construction and anything in food, fibre, and horticulture.

      That looks like a massive shift in increased productivity for New Zealand.

      • RedLogix 6.2.1
        16 December 2021 at 11:40 am

        It's not the growth: the thing to watch is the quality of the growth.

        Finally someone says this out loud. For all the pissing and moaning that goes on here, NZ is still one of the best governed nations and still one of the best places in the world. Anyone who thinks otherwise really needs to live and work in a few other places in the world.

        But it is also true that we have fallen short of our potential for this fundamental reason, low quality economic activity that delivers crap jobs, insecure and badly paid. One economic commentator after another has been saying this for decades, yet no govt has really found the lever to shift this. Maybe COVID will accidentally deliver it to us.

      • Pat 6.2.2
        16 December 2021 at 11:44 am

        As stated whether 'growth' is a positive is open to debate….never mind agreeing on 'quality'

        You may think that the listed sectors will suffer a "temporary" hit but the evidence is those sectors will not recover to previous levels anytime soon (if ever)…and construction (a boom bust industry) is struggling through constraints on labour, materials and now finance.

        As to hort and ag, well our major market is in the throes of property crash and a major slowdown in growth.

        But hey, its all good

        • Ad 6.2.2.1
          16 December 2021 at 12:23 pm

          Construction is now underpinned by infrastructure jobs – which are government funded ad long term. Even a (highly unlikely) international property market collapse would see those builders readily absorbed.

          Also you may not have noticed but we are at 3.4% unemployment heading for 3.1%. They are the constraints of a sustained boom that will continue as long as there is a housing shortage here.

          Cite evidence of this property crash, and then cite how they are affecting our horticultural, meat, wood, and wine exports.

          All NZ and Au forecast reports out in the last 6 weeks show you are simply wrong.

          • Pat 6.2.2.1.1
            16 December 2021 at 12:37 pm

            "Construction is now underpinned by infrastructure jobs – which are government funded ad long term. Even a (highly unlikely) international property market collapse would see those builders readily absorbed."

            Wrong…residential is twice the value of non currently…and the skill sets are not easily transferable.

            "Also you may not have noticed but we are at 3.4% unemployment heading for 3.1%. They are the constraints of a sustained boom that will continue as long as there is a housing shortage here."

            Cant build without labour, materials and finance…and the housing shortage is not a physical shortage

            "Cite evidence of this property crash, and then cite how they are affecting our horticultural, meat, wood, and wine exports."

            Too many to list, google Evergrande, chinese growth or even just China economy.

            "All NZ and Au forecast reports out in the last 6 weeks show you are simply wrong."

            Care to cite one?

            • Tricledrown 6.2.2.1.1.1
              16 December 2021 at 12:52 pm

              Pat you know nothing of the building industry NZ is struggling to meet housing demand that will continue as workers from abroad are needed in just about every sector except the tourism sector they need accomodation

              NZers returning home and bolthole seekers will need to live somewhere to live.

              Construction workers have most of the skill set to build infrastructure.Millions of tons of Concrete needs form work the same skills that builders use.Digger drivers ,drainlayers electricians.concrete placers etc etc.

              Pat I sense desperation in your frivolous envy argument.

              • Pat …
                16 December 2021 at 12:58 pm

                "Pat you know nothing of the building industry NZ is struggling to meet housing demand that will continue as workers from abroad are needed in just about every sector except the tourism sector they need accomodation"

                If you say so….didnt know you knew me personally

                "NZers returning home and bolthole seekers will need to live somewhere to live."

                Ah, that old (discredited) chestnut….go and look at the stats….they never showed up.

                "Construction workers have most of the skill set to build infrastructure.Millions of tons of Concrete needs form work the same skills that builders use.Digger drivers ,drainlayers electricians.concrete placers etc etc."

                Glad you qualified that statement…SOME workers, have SOME of the skills required to move between the two….and even then they generally require oversight and training.

                • Tricledrown …
                  16 December 2021 at 1:28 pm

                  Pat not much building intricate form work is virtually identical to building a house.

                  Measuring timber cutting to length following plans very straight forward. Tying steel the same pouring concrete and finishing the same.

                  Once borders open up there will be a.massive influx to fill labour shortages in most areas of the economy.

                  Expats can't get back to NZ in the present environment because of our cautious approach but once those restrictions ease their will be a massive influx.

                  You can hear them all screaming why can't we come home now.

                  Theirs a global pandemic so you will have to que.

                  Employers in just about every sector are screaming for migrant Labour.

                  So your dreaming if you think the building industry is going to collapse.If it did it would be good for state House construction as it would be able to take up the slack.

                  • Pat …
                    16 December 2021 at 1:55 pm

                    "Once borders open up there will be a.massive influx to fill labour shortages in most areas of the economy."

                    There may be a massive influx of workers (define massive) equally there will likely be an exodus of NZ experienced workers, when the borders open……or the Gov may determine that with an election due the following year it may be politically expedient to restrict the numbers…yet to be determined, but even if they do that only potentially solves one of the problems….theres still materials and finance.

                    Materials, or the lack of are in the short to medium term outside the control of the domestic market/government….how long do you think the average construction related firm can carry their current costs while waiting?….the answer is not even until now for some.

                    So time will tell who is dreaming .

  7. Sabine 7
    16 December 2021 at 11:52 am

    Well it seems that the government makes good on some property gains? Are these 'fictional' gains included in his 'surplus'? This from October this year:

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/surplus-inches-closer-as-government-books-billions-of-dollars-on-rising-property-values/YD4F7N3P3D7P6TKQGAZGFVEKEI/

    The Government booked billions of gains from a booming property and share markets. Like many home-owning households, the Government is now significantly wealthier than it was before the pandemic.

    The Government's net worth – that means everything the Crown owns, minus everything it owes – is now $151.4b, a huge $41b increase on where it was a year ago.

  8. Gypsy 8
    16 December 2021 at 12:03 pm

    I don't buy into the narrative that one party is better than another at managing the economy. In my lifetime I've lived through both good and bad economic management from both of the main political parties. Frankly there was very little difference between the economic management of the Clark and Key governments, except for the times when politics overrode common sense (e.g. the interest free student loans bribe). This government has some serious problems that go to the core of who we are as a society. Homelessness, housing affordability, gun crime, and a host of other societal problems stalk this country in a way they should not. These are problems that have been in the making for (in some cases) decades. But this government has, if anything, made a number of key societal measures worse.

  9. Blazer 9
    16 December 2021 at 1:30 pm

    Treasury's sobering house price prediction for 2022 (msn.com)

    All five major banks now expect house prices to fall in 2022 | interest.co.nz

    I think it was Galbraith who….'economics exists so economists …can be employed'..or similar.

  10. Corey Humm 10
    16 December 2021 at 1:37 pm

    Who is the economy going well for at ground level?

    Everytime we time go to the supermarket the items cost a little more than before… Couples with in their late twenties and early thirties on the average wage of fifty something k each are struggling to make ends meet and will never be able to own a house.

    apocalyptic house prices means rents are becoming so expensive that the media will soon be talking about "renting being out of reach for the average New Zealanders"

    Power prices are way up.

    If this keeps up we'll have grandma and grandad living with mom and dad and the grand kids at great grandma and great granddad's house and the rest of us in trailer parks , motels and cardboard boxes or tents.

    If the governments books are so great how about they actually do something on housing with the urgency they gave COVID.

    Sorting housing sorts poverty.

    As for poverty… They are going to need to double the winter energy payment and double that increase next year just for people to get by because housing is so expensive.

    NZ has 1.9 million houses 200 thousand of those sit empty and the pm has repeatedly said that she doesn't think having nearly 10% of our houses empty is an issue. Jfc

    50% of nzers own less than 2% of the wealth and it's getting worse.

    Thirty odd years ago the grown ups in the room should have done everything they can to get kiwi's investing out of housing and into productive aspects of the economy but every government for thirty years has encouraged and ignored this problem.

    Im starting to think all cabinet ministers for the last thirty years should be in prison for how they have allowed this economic and social and inequality , poverty and human rights catastrophe of housing and that includes ministers of this government.

    Labours ideology is not up to the job. They need to change or be replaced.

    And considering their email on Tuesday night to all us former members literally begging for money for 2023, it's safe to say all labour will be focused on from now till 2023 is an election in two years rather than doing anything with their unprecedented power to seriously address the issues. They just wanna stay in power rather than doing anything with that power.

    But Yay… I'm glad to hear the economy is going well on paper

    • tc 10.2
      16 December 2021 at 3:04 pm

      I'm prepared to give benefit of doubt as election funding is crucial given they're not backed by the hollowmen as others are.

      Having said that agree with most of your points and the clocks ticking down to use that majority to do great work.

      Great work that can’t be reversed easily is the trick given nationals track record.

      • Gezza 10.2.1
        16 December 2021 at 3:10 pm

        They really need to get off their arses and start sorting these problems now. Not leave it until election year, the time-honoured voter bribing time.

  11. Cricklewood 11
    16 December 2021 at 7:02 pm

    An economy with unaffordable housing and thousands of people in emergency accommodation is a failing economy imo.

    • Blazer 11.1
      16 December 2021 at 7:53 pm

      Dead right …but people seem to have accepted it and are desensitivised about it.

    • ghostwhowalksnz 11.2
      17 December 2021 at 3:03 pm

      Unaffordable housing ?

      Every single new house ( many are apartments/terrace/townhouses) being built this year is sold before its built or soon after.

      Some ones buying them ….obviously not you but doesnt figure that they are 'unaffordable'

      I think Ive read that the median household income for Auckland – who are working- is over $130k pa

      Even in the 90s young single people often had to band together to buy a house as its never been cheap

      • Blazer 11.2.1
        18 December 2021 at 6:31 pm

        Are you SERIOUS?

        Historically house prices were 3-4 times average annual income.

        Even now when its household income =2 people working…in Auckland it is around 9-10…

        Young people are …fucked.

        NZ has a population of apx 5million, and has plenty of land.

        It's an absolute ripoff …blame lies with weak Govts in awe of the FIRE sector.

        • ghostwhowalksnz 11.2.1.1
          18 December 2021 at 8:19 pm

          Apartments or townhouse.

          My place in central isthmus isnt worth anywhere near say $900k

          • Blazer 11.2.1.1.1
            18 December 2021 at 8:42 pm

            '

            Even in the 90s young single people often had to band together to buy a house as its never been cheap'

            This is nonsense.

            • ghostwhowalksnz 11.2.1.1.1.1
              20 December 2021 at 5:47 pm

              You like the other pontificators only 'read about buying in Auckland'

              My first place was 4x my then annual income and I needed help from parentsand 2nd Mortgage via State Advances….and flatmates.
              1993

              Interest rates were extremely high by modern standards and so were income tax rates

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of Plenty
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 hours ago

  • Speech to New Zealand China Council
    Thank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today.    Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    9 hours ago

  • Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi households
    The Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    24 hours ago

  • Government recommits to equal pay
    The coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Transforming how our children learn to read
    Structured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.  “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • NZ not backing down in Canada dairy dispute
    Trade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable children
    The rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Streamlining Building Consent Changes
    The Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.      “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
    New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...
    Good evening –   Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Accelerating airport security lines
    From today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Community hui to talk about kina barrens
    People with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into force
    Kiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Mining resurgence a welcome sign
    There are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first reading
    The return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Government to boost public EV charging network
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure.  The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Residential Property Managers Bill to not progress
    The coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Independent review into disability support services
    The Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Justice Minister updates UN on law & order plan
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Ending emergency housing motels in Rotorua
    The Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and Dubai
    Trade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Education priorities focused on lifting achievement
    Education Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • NZTA App first step towards digital driver licence
    The new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say.  “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Tribute to Dave O'Sullivan
    Racing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Speech – Eid al-Fitr
    Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Government saves access to medicines
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff.    “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Pharmac Chair appointed
    Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
    Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.  “Every day, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • New sports complex opens in Kaikohe
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Diplomacy needed more than ever
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges.    “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery Belgium
    Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service.  It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk Bair
    Distinguished guests -   It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders.   Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye
    Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia.   Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • PM announces changes to portfolios
    Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • New catch limits for unique fishery areas
    Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-03T06:08:54+00:00