Search

Mr Speaker

I move that the Appropriation (2017/18 Estimates) Bill be now read a second time.

It is an honour and a privilege to present my first budget to the public of New Zealand – the ninth of this National-led Government.

In doing so I acknowledge my predecessor and our new Prime Minister Bill English for his hard work and leadership in facing down the decade of deficits, bringing New Zealand successfully through the Global Financial Crisis, and responding to the impacts of the Canterbury earthquakes.

Good afternoon.

Thank you John and Peter and the Wellington Chamber of Commerce.

Special guests, Ladies and Gentlemen. It’s a pleasure to be here.

Budget 2017 is now just under one month away and preparations are continuing.

I have four key areas I am thinking about in getting ready for this year’s Budget.

First, delivering better public services for a growing country – providing all New Zealanders with the opportunity to lead successful independent lives.

Good afternoon everyone.

Thank you John and IPANZ for hosting this event today.

Special guests, Ladies and Gentlemen. It’s a pleasure to be here.

Today I’m going to talk about a renewed focus on improving productivity across the public service.

Economic Outlook

At a time when many parts of the world face significant political and economic risks, the outlook for New Zealand is positive. Businesses are investing, job growth is solid and wages are rising faster than inflation.

Good afternoon.

Thank you Michael and the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, and new Vice Chancellor Jan Thomas and Massey University for hosting this event.

Special guests, Ladies and Gentlemen. It’s a pleasure to be here.

Today I’m going to offer some views on the current state of the New Zealand economy and our infrastructure.

Economic Outlook

Thank you for joining me here today as I launch the Government’s first ever National Statement of Science Investment.

I’d like to acknowledge those who took the time to make a submission on the draft National Statement of Science Investment when it was published last year.

The final NSSI responds to feedback on the Draft that asked for a document more focused on the future and with a more comprehensive plan for science in New Zealand.