Kiwis love a good competition especially on the sports field. Whether it’s the All Blacks facing off against the Springboks or Team New Zealand chasing the America’s Cup, we know how to bring our best when it counts.
But how do we stack up when it comes to competing in the global economy?
The short answer: we could do better.
New Zealand ranks 31st out of 69 countries in international rankings like the IMD World Competitiveness Index. That puts us behind countries like Switzerland, Singapore, and Denmark, which consistently rank in the top five. Why? Because they’re stronger in key areas like:
- How easy it is to do business
- How efficiently their governments operate
- The quality of their infrastructure
Our government plays a big role in how we can improve. By investing in better infrastructure and creating stable, predictable policies, it can help set the stage for Kiwi businesses to compete and win on the world stage.
However, the real gains come when Kiwi businesses back themselves to outcompete their peers internationally. Think Fonterra. Locally, think BFM Global, Lifestream International and Allproof Industries.
Domestically, for too long Kiwis have been paying the price of a lack of competition in key sectors with concentrated market power, such as groceries, building and construction, banking and energy. A lack of competition means lower productivity, fewer choices and higher prices.
That’s why I am pleased that the Coalition government is taking action to improve competition:
- In Banking: Parliament's Finance & Expenditure Committee has just completed its public Inquiry into Banking Competition with changes on the way,
- In Building & Construction: Building & Construction Minister Chris Penk’s reforms will make it easier and cheaper to get homes built,
- In Energy: MBIE is set to announce its recommendations to improve competition into the electricity market,
- In Supermarkets: Finance Minister Nicola Willis is opening an express lane for new supermarkets, so consumers benefit from lower prices
These changes will take time to flow through, but they are important changes for the long-term to ensure lower cost of living for families across our community and country.
Just like on the sports field, you can’t win if the rules are stacked against you. Kiwis value fairness and honesty, which is why we are focusing on changes that will benefit everyone.
Community News
Community Safety Forum
We recently held our second Community Safety Forum Meeting, and it was fantastic to see strong attendance from local police, businesses, and community groups. These forums are a valuable opportunity to share ideas, raise concerns, and work together to improve safety in our community.
One key topic discussed was retail crime prevention. For retailers looking to protect their staff and premises, the Retail Crime Prevention Guidelines from New Zealand Police are a great resource. They offer practical advice on how to reduce the risk of crime and respond effectively when incidents occur.
You can access the guidelines and other helpful tools on the Retail Crime Prevention Hub from New Zealand Police.
Let’s keep the momentum going and continue working together to make our community safer for everyone.
Local Body Elections
Voting has opened for the Auckland Council Elections. This is where you get to have your say on who is elected to represent us as Mayor, our Councillors and the Kaipatiki Local Boad. Mayor Wayne Brown is standing for re-election. And we have a real contest on for our two North Shore Councillor positions with our very own Danielle Grant seeking your vote, along with Richard Hills and John Gillon. Look out for voting papers to arrive in your mailbox between 9 and 22 Sept.
Upcoming Events - Get Involved!
Movie Night
Come join us for Downtown Abbey - The Grand Finale at The Bridgeway. 6.30pm Thursday 18 September for a 7.00pm Movie. Bridgeway Cinema, 122 Queen Street, Northcote Point. $35 (including GST) movie including a drink or snack
MS “ Battle of the Boots” charity football match
Come support on Sunday 14th September. This is held at Birkenhead United Football club in Shepherds Park Beach Haven. The event is a fundraiser kicking off Multiple Sclerosis week and will feature comedians , radio hosts and other average football players such as myself. It’s a great cause and it starts at 1.30 pm with food , auctions and a fun atmosphere. I look forward to seeing you there.