Throughout 2024, the Government has prioritised rebuilding the economy, reducing living costs, improving healthcare and education, and making New Zealand safer.
These are key concerns for seniors, and we are committed to lasting improvements which support wellbeing and quality of life.
To help seniors manage rising costs, we have introduced tax relief to ease household budgets.
The Winter Energy Payment helped cover heating costs during colder months while efforts to lower inflation are also paying off, with two recent interest rate cuts offering some relief.
Improving healthcare continues to be a priority. This year, the Government has invested a record $30 billion to improve access to essential health services.
We’re funding new cancer treatments and extending free breast screening for women aged 70 to 74 in the Nelson Marlborough district, ahead of a national roll-out starting late next year. We are also boosting immunisation efforts and expanding health training, especially for nurses and midwives.
A sustainable aged care sector is essential, and the Government is working to reform the aged care sector. An ongoing review, initiated in 2023, aims to find lasting solutions.
Engagement continues to inform the review to address challenges and ensure seniors can live comfortably and independently, with access to the support they need.
Safety is also a top priority. By the end of 2025, 500 new police officers will join the force, and we’re making the necessary legislative changes to reduce crime and increase safety in the community, including the introduction of new gang laws and a youth justice programme.
Our education reforms are paving the way to a stronger future, with a back-to-basics approach prioritising dedicated hours for literacy and maths.
This Government is committed to rebuilding the economy, reducing living costs, improving healthcare and education, and making our country safer for all New Zealanders.
Related: Signalling new benefit rules
