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.

Delivered to executive members of the Auckland Secondary Principals Association and Auckland Primary Principals Association - not delivered word for word

Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to meet with me. It has been a busy first three weeks, but getting out to schools and eaerly childhood centres and meeting principals and leaders like yourselves is so important to me.

Ladies and Gentlemen.

It’s a pleasure to be here today.

Can I start by acknowledging my Deputy Paula Bennett and paying tribute to the man who is responsible for pulling this year’s Budget together - Finance Minister Steven Joyce.

And can I say it’s a pleasure to lead a country that’s becoming more confident and sure of itself, and where we have so many positive choices.

New Zealand has an enviable international reputation.

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.