Archive - these pages are part of the continuing record of Executive Government - for the current Administration, see www.beehive.govt.nz
New Zealand Executive Government - Policy
Foreword We now face an opportunity that comes, at most, once in a generation. We have a duty to use it wisely. Our hard-won economic turnaround gives us the potential to ensure the country's well-being for future generations.
The Government wants the nation and individual New Zealanders to grasp the opportunities that arise from the country's success.
Three years ago, Path to 2010 set growth and social cohesion as the Government's two over-arching goals. These are still our goals.
Our approach is straight-forward. It is through having a good education and training, securing a job and being involved in our communities that we forge a better future for ourselves, our families and our country.
The Government recognises that its policies will not be effective unless they are in tune with New Zealanders' values and aspirations.
While we want financial success for ourselves and our families, we retain a deep-seated concern for those who are less fortunate.
The Government is working towards a vision of a country in which:
all New Zealanders have opportunities to work and to increase their knowledge and skills
we can all make valuable contributions to our communities
all of us recognise our responsibilities as members of families, communities and society
no one is denied the opportunities and choices that are their right; nor are they required to shoulder more than their fair share of the burden.
We are getting closer to this vision.
Economic growth and responsible management are the foundations of our achievements. A sound economy has improved the lives of many New Zealand families. More people are in work, education or training. In thousands of ways, New Zealanders are taking up the challenges and opportunities of the growing economy.
The Government has done its part by using the extra resources available to it to carefully balance competing demands. Debt repayment has been central to our strategy. We will continue to reduce public debt. Net public foreign currency debt is projected to be eliminated altogether in the coming financial year.
Spending will continue to be directed to areas of highest priority. We will be introducing new initiatives to strengthen our communities and to better protect the environment.
Government investment in science, research and technology will also be expanded. At the same time, we are putting more into health and education than ever before. We remain committed to ensuring that New Zealanders receive better quality education, training and health care.
The Government will continue to be the dominant funder of education and health services. Each year we will invest more in these areas - but not blindly. Our spending must be always under scrutiny to ensure we get value for our money.
A key component of our strategy for the next two years is the Tax Reduction and Social Policy Programme.
This programme is based on two beliefs:
families are the lifeblood of our communities
employment is the primary means by which individuals and families prosper.
The programme includes increases in family assistance and tax reductions for low and middle income New Zealanders. Lower taxes make it more attractive for people to work and save.
Reducing the tax burden on families and increasing family assistance helps parents give children a better start in life. It rewards those New Zealanders whose efforts have brought us to the strong position we now enjoy.
The Tax Reduction and Social Policy Programme also addresses the concerns we share about those people who are not yet participating in the mainstream of growth. The Government is determined to help them grasp opportunities to work, learn and prosper.
We are encouraging greater financial independence for those on benefits with information, assistance and work incentives.
By helping people into work, and by rewarding individuals and families who work, the programme is an investment in the future.
As we have ambitious goals - we cannot afford to be complacent. We have taken stock of what we have achieved and, more importantly, acknowledged what remains to be done.
This booklet provides a record of the road we have travelled and sets out the new opportunities ahead.
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