Slide 1 of 11

Testing Times

New Zealand is a small, smart, outward looking nation sitting on the edge of the Pacific rim.

We have had to look to the world to make our way but we are realistic that no one owes us a living. Recent events in Asia have been a wake up call for many which we can't ignore.

All New Zealanders, Government and the private sector need to be well prepared and fleet footed, ready to respond quickly to changing conditions. In 1998 we are well positioned to do that.

New Zealanders have done nothing wrong. In almost every respect over the last ten years we have all contributed to building the strong economy that will enable us to weather the storm.

The financial turbulence we are facing is being driven largely by external and regional factors and NZ is not alone in having to face up to this, nor are we being singled out.

The Government's fiscal and economic strategy has put NZ in a good position to face the future. We are also well positioned to take advantage of opportunities that will, in time, arise.