There has been long-standing recognition that New Zealand First has an unrivalled reputation for delivering to our older New Zealanders. This remains true, and is reflected in our government coalition agreement.
While we know there is much we can and will do in this space, it is important to shift some fundamentals in how we think about our seniors.
Firstly, as I travel the country and meet with communities, I am struck by how much reliance there is on the contribution of older New Zealanders.
Whether it’s in sports clubs, community groups, charities, churches or social services there is always someone who is technically of ‘retirement age’ delivering key functions to keep wheels turning.
Secondly, as I engage with business communities across all sectors, there are many, well past pension eligibility age, who continue to not only work but drive our economy forward.
The reality is that an increasing number of over-65s continue to work. Therefore, it is important that we have a system whereby there remains a choice to retire which is why New Zealand First included the protection of the retirement age in our coalition agreement.
It is equally important that the country is also awakened to the reality that age does not limit potential, value or contribution.
Whatever the field of endeavour – construction, infrastructure, IT, medicine, education, arts, sport, science, manufacturing, hospitality and more, there is invaluable contribution by a ‘senior’.
Finally, we have, in recent years, seen too much narrative suggesting “boomers” are an anchor weighing down our economy, thus creating a sentiment of resentment.
In reality, the opposite is true and young New Zealanders have much to learn from our seniors about resilience, accountability, and responsibility.
We started 2025 with clear and strong messages of growth and a commitment to saying, “yes”. There is much more we can do to optimise the quality of life for ALL New Zealanders and a strong economy makes that possible.
This growth, however, will benefit greatly from recognition of what is working well, and from my first year as an MP, what is working well is our hardworking Kiwi battlers who happen to be over 65.
