The Government's plans to extend paid parental leave and provide children with free healthcare are being welcomed by some local political leaders - but others aren't convinced.
Finance Minister Bill English released the annual Budget on Thursday, which outlined a $500 million package that would see free GP visits and free prescriptions for children aged under 13, an additional $156 million put towards helping early childhood centres remain affordable and $33 million allocated to helping vulnerable children.
The Budget also included promises of a gradual extension of paid parental leave to 18 weeks, and an easing of criteria, among other things.
Rotorua MP Todd McClay said the Budget was good news for Rotorua families.
"Rotorua's young families and children are the winners of Budget 2014, with $500 million to help families as well as boosts for education, health and job support," he said.