I know many New Zealanders are frustrated right now - growth has been uneven, combined with global uncertainty.
 
This week, I spoke with Mike Hosking about the tough GDP numbers and what’s really behind them. One quarter doesn’t tell the full story. In the first three months of this year, we grew 0.9% - three times faster than Australia and double economists’ forecasts.
 
There are already signs of progress: job ads rising, retail spending improving, and almost half of mortgages are set to shift to lower rates, easing pressure on households.
 
We’re focused on what matters- fast-tracking $7 billion in roads, schools, and hospitals before Christmas, fixing energy policy to support manufacturing, investing in tourism, and securing new trade deals.
 
I didn’t take this role to manage easy times. I’m here to help turn things around — being upfront, making tough calls with a steady plan for stability, investment, and growth.

We’re taking a balanced, responsible approach to fix the economy, because New Zealand deserves nothing less.
 
Listen to my full interview here.

 

Nicola Willis

Spokesperson for Finance