Grey Power was off to a flying start this year when a Federation delegation met with politicians on February 11 and 12, the first of several parliamentary meetings planned for 2026.
At the first of these, appointments were secured with Winston Peters (NZ First), Dr Ayesha Verrall (Labour), Ingrid Leary (Labour), Scott Simpson (National) and Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan (Green Party).
Discussions addressed:
- Re-introduction of free health eye checks which were part of the 2020 budget promises
- SuperGold card subsidies
- Updates on the Better Later Life strategy 2025-2028 Action plan
- Upcoming election policies from all parties for the Aged Care sector
- Surcharge removals for ACC appointments
- Seniors being declined ACC due to aged wear and tear
Grey Power national president Gayle Chambers asked each MP about their party policy for the upcoming election on the needs of New Zealand seniors
“All parties said they were working on their policy commitment regarding seniors. Labour is investigating free GP checks for seniors, Greens are working on a strategy to acknowledge and celebrate seniors’ vital role in New Zealand Society and NZ First is committed to a positive approach to superannuation.”
On another note, Winston Peters promised to encourage seniors to join Grey Power adding, in his own choice way, that instead of complaining about what hadn’t been done, seniors “should get off their bums and join Grey Power”, as it was a strong voice speaking out on their behalf and doing everything possible to ensure better quality of life for older Kiwis.
On applauding the sentiment, Federation president, Gayle Chambers said 2026 was set to bring new challenges for many seniors.
“There is the upcoming government budget and then the nationwide election in November. We all have plenty to think about so I encourage Grey Power members to explore policies and to listen to the rhetoric around what each party plans to offer seniors if it becomes the Government. Seniors need to assess which policies will benefit them, and then make their vote count.”
NOTE: More on outcomes from the February meetings in the next issue of Grey Power magazine.
