There is no meaningful help for Kiwi workers in this Budget. In fact, middle-income families are getting steadily worse off, with the cancellation of National's tax changes and the proposed increase in fuel taxes, which will take petrol and diesel prices to record levels.
But the most frustrating oversight in Labour's Budget is any plan to keep our economy growing and developing.
This Government's anti-business policies mean growth projections are more a hope than a prediction. We need to make the boat go faster, not drop the anchor on New Zealand's economy.
This is a hugely disappointing Budget. While they've demonstrated their intention to borrow, spend and tax more, there's clearly no plan for how we as a country can earn more.
National believes the focus should be on providing prosperity to the next generation by investing in health and education services, paying off debt and sustainably growing our economy.
New Zealand is a land of opportunities - but we have to make the most of them.
National Party and Opposition leader Simon Bridges has embarked on a regional road show and is travelling around the country over the next couple of months meeting as many New Zealanders as possible and connecting with our communities.
Simon is a former Crown prosecutor with a young family who is passionate about this country and he's keen to hear about what matters to you. He's got an energetic and united team around him - all of whom back New Zealanders to succeed.
He also understands the importance of a strong economy for Kiwi households - helping lift wages and create jobs, while also looking after the environment.
I hope you can join Simon and I when he visits the Rangitikei as part of his regional tour.
We'll be at Orlando Country Club in Palmerston North from 7pm on Wednesday, May 30; in Whanganui from 10am-11.30am on Monday, July 9 (venue to be confirmed); and at the Cosmopolitan Club in Taumarunui from 10.30am-noon on Tuesday, July 10. Please feel free to come along.
