Seniors are at the heart of our communities

The National Party is working hard to grow the economy and ease the cost of living, so you can relax and make the most of this time in your life. National values the contribution seniors have made to our country. That’s why we’re making sure you’re looked after. As a society, we must ensure you feel included and valued and live with dignity, respect and the support you deserve.

Here’s what National is doing to make a difference on issues that matter to you and your fellow seniors.

We’re Easing the Cost of Living

• Increased superannuation to give couples an extra $129.40 every fortnight, thanks in part to our tax relief.
• Reduced inflation by stopping wasteful government spending to stabilise the cost of basic everyday items.
• Increased the number of seniors who qualify for a rates rebate of up to $800, making it easier to stay in your home.
• Keeping the Winter Energy Payment to help you warm your home over winter.
• Frozen the tax on petrol across the country for three years and cancelled the Auckland fuel tax to stabilise fuel prices.
• We’re also maintaining free public transport in many areas around the country in off-peak hours, and offering free prescriptions for SuperGold Card holders.

Delivering Quality Healthcare

• Providing more elective surgeries like cataracts, hip and knee replacements to shorten waiting times.
• Funded 27 extra cancer treatments and 23 additional medicines, thanks to our $ 604 million funding boost, with more medicines to come.
• Hired 2,000 more nurses.
• Introduced a wave of hiring incentives to recruit more GPs and nurse practitioners.
• Provided a 24/7 digital health service so you can contact a doctor or nurse using your phone or laptop at any time, day or night.
• Increased numbers of urgent and after-hours clinics across the country
• Extending regular prescriptions to 12 months to save time and money when visiting the doctor.

Restoring Law and Order

• Reduced violent crime and ram raids so you can feel safer on the streets and in your homes.
• Cracked down on gangs, and banned gang patches in public.
• Given Police more powers and tools to tackle criminals.
• Introduced tougher sentences, and brought back consequences for crime such as restoring Three Strikes for repeat offenders.

Teaching the Basics Brilliantly

• Ensured your grandchildren and all school children are taught an hour each of reading, writing and maths every day to set them up for success.
• Banned cell phones in class so children can concentrate on learning.
• Provided more teacher aides in class so every child can progress and thrive.

Helpful Contacts:

• Healthline 24/7 service: 0800 611 116
• SuperGold Card: www.supergoldcard.org.nz
• Check what you may be eligible for: www.msd.govt.nz