Photo: Sandra Blaser. © World Economic Forum.
With this Budget, we're doing things differently.
So – we’re widening our focus.
Supporting a thriving nation in the digital age through innovation, social and economic opportunities.
Assisting productive businesses, regions, iwi and others to transition to a sustainable and low-emissions economy.
Lifting Māori and Pacific incomes, skills and opportunities.
Supporting mental wellbeing for all New Zealanders, with a special focus on under 24 year-olds.
Reducing child poverty and improving child wellbeing, including addressing family violence.
We will continue to measure economic growth, balance our books responsibly, run a healthy surplus, and spend well within our means.
However, this widened focus will require any Minister that wants to spend money to prove this investment will improve inter-generational wellbeing.
It's an approach led by kindness and compassion – and it's simply the right thing to do.