Budget 2026 has just been released; it is all about responsible economic management to secure New Zealand’s future.
Let's unpack some of the highlights for Selwyn.
Treasury forecasts show the economy growing by an average of 2.7 per cent with around 220,000 more jobs expected over the next four years, and wages continuing to grow faster than inflation.
The books are forecast to return to surplus in 2028/29 - earlier than expected – with debt starting to fall as a share of the economy.
Budget 2026 includes around $2 billion in new funding for education over four years to lift student achievement, support teachers and invest in school property and infrastructure.
We’re providing professional development for 32,000 school teachers increasing the operating grant for schools, accelerating up to 10 major redevelopments, and investing in growing and maintaining school properties.
This Budget delivers the single largest investment in frontline services, with $5.8 billion in health funding over four years to support doctors, nurses and patients, alongside initiatives like lowering the bowel screening age.
We’re investing in hospital upgrades and a further $930 million in the next year on new clinical equipment, technology upgrades and hospital facility improvements, including increased radiation treatment capacity at Christchurch Hospital.
Changes to the SuperGold Card will provide additional support to older New Zealanders, helping ease cost pressures and ensure they can continue to live with dignity and independence.
We’re investing around $1.6 billion into Defence capability and operations, including maritime security and modern equipment for the NZDF – supporting personnel and families at Burnham Military Camp.
- 3 day postnatal hospital stay - Beehive PR
- Boosting ambulance services across NZ - Beehive PR
- Incentivising councils to go for housing growth - Beehive PR
- Budget doubles trade training opportunities - Budget PR
- My interview with Andy Rowe - YouTube video
I hosted National's health spokespeople Simeon Brown and Matt Doocey for a public meeting on Rural Health earlier in the month.
They shared some of the work that our government has progressed to make healthcare more accessible such as online GP services, rural mental health initiatives, and funding training for more nurse practitioners.
Thank you to those who attended and raised productive and practical feedback for such an important issue for our district.
I am happy to now share that Darfield Hospital has re-opened for admissions after successful advocation and I'd like to thank Minister Brown for taking action and for Health NZ in securing the necessary medical cover for the hospital to run.
We had an amazing turnout for my fourth annual Pink Ribbon fundraiser alongside the wonderful Kate Webb and Selwyn Parenting Network! We raised over $2,900 for the Breast Cancer Foundation that will go towards research, support and education on breast cancer.
Thank you to my wonderful friends and colleagues Barbara Kuriger, Maureen Pugh and Vanessa Weenink for taking the time to join and support.
I was so thrilled to see so many familiar faces at the event - with many of you responding from this newsletter! Thank you for supporting such an important cause.
You can get in touch with us by emailing Nicola.GriggMP@parliament.govt.nz, phone 03 344 2800, or pop into the office in Rolleston Square between Monday and Fridays, 10:00am - 4:00pm.