Simon Bridges National MP simonbridges.co.nz

Last Saturday, I opened the National SPCA Conference here in Tauranga. The work the SPCA does, in caring for and looking after neglected animals, is invaluable. So, I am always happy to support them in their work when I can.

In parliament, we have been building up to this week's budget. This Government's fifth budget shows that in tough economic times we are continuing to invest in things that matter to New Zealanders, while responsibly managing the Government's finances. The latest numbers show that we are on track to keep our election promise of returning to surplus in 2014/15 – and begin paying down debt.

We are also on track with our priority to grow the economy, and there has been some positive economic news announced recently. Growth for the December 2012 quarter was 1.5 per cent, among the highest in the OECD. The Household Labour Force Survey released last week shows unemployment has fallen from 6.8 per cent to 6.2 per cent. There is still a lot of work to be done, but these numbers show we are on the right track.

Delivering security, wellbeing, and respect to older New Zealanders

Older New Zealanders deserve to enjoy their retirement. They deserve to know they are being taken care of, and that the financial support they rely on will still be there for them, despite the difficult global economic conditions we've faced as a country.

This is why Prime Minister John Key promised all New Zealanders that the rate of superannuation would remain at 66 per cent of the average wage for a married couple, under his leadership. I'm proud to be part of a National Party that is giving seniors the security about their future that they deserve.

Despite the difficult financial times in the last five years, under National, the rate of superannuation has increased by 25 per cent – much higher than the rate of inflation during this same period.

A married couple now receives $1099 a fortnight in superannuation payments, while someone receiving a single-living alone payment of superannuation now receives $571 a fortnight. This financial certainty is what I want for all New Zealanders aged over 65.

But National is also committed to supporting older New Zealanders in other ways too.

National continues to support older New Zealanders to be healthier and independent in their own homes or in aged care. In a recent pre-budget announcement, our Minister of Health announced aged care and dementia services will benefit from an extra $70 million over the next four years. This is good news for older New Zealanders in care.

I am privileged to meet with many older New Zealanders across our region. I am constantly inspired by their stories, and by the things they have achieved, as well as the sacrifices they've made to help their families succeed. It's great that this Government is ensuring the security, wellbeing, and respect, all older New Zealanders deserve.